To be honest, i think STO quit really trying to win maybe 4 seasons ago or so. At a time then, we though he quit but he grabbed some guys and kept training.
At times, this game is like Rock'em Sock'em Robots.
you just press abunch of buttons (rent high salary players) play aggressive (look inside) and hope it works.
They are making adjustments to the GE, that much is clear, wiether they admit it or not. but the bottom line is, player loyalty is only worth it if you have a home grown NT player that is trained not to be expense (guard with passing and no jumper / SF with no jump range / Big with no inside shot)...otherwise, no matter how good they are, the merchandise doesnt match the cost of keeping an elite player.
I think STO just grew tired of the Look inside era. If you look at his game vs stunners, he got smoked. If it were a closer game, he may not have reacted that way. but he you look at the ratings, i could see why he got frustrated.
Its just how buzzer beater is. you have to accept it for what it is.
If you want to see who is the better strategist, set a salary cap and ban look inside. Now THAT would be exciting.
Somebody let me a hold a no. 2 pencil cause they testin' me.