UCLA is currently 17-7. We are probably an 11 seed at the moment. However our remaining schedule is brutal.
At #2 Michigan
At #10 Michigan St.
vs #5 Illinois
vs USC
vs Minnesota
vs #9 Nebraska
UCLA could easily lose to all four ranked teams. This would put is at 19-11. (I am also assuming we beat USC and Minnesota which isn't a given) At 19-11 our only real notable win is vs. Purdue. We could make a deep run in the Big 10 tourney, but I am guessing we would have to beat a couple of the ranked teams to make a difference. All this being said, barring some upsets, I see us as NIT bound.
Would Skyy make a difference? Even if he comes back he will probably not be in game shape for at least a few games. I don't believe his presence would make enough of a difference vs. the ranked teams.
If Skyy weren't a senior I would think Cronin should just shut him down for the rest of the season at this point.
Perhaps I am being too pessimistic. I hope they prove me wrong and beat Illinois and Nebraska at home. I believe that would be enough to get us in the dance.