Although they defeated the Rochester Royals in the first round of the playoffs, they were defeated by the Fort Wayne Pistons in the semifinals.[33] Although they had losing records the next two seasons, they made the playoffs each year.[2] Mikan came back for the last half of the 1955–56 season, but struggled and retired for good after the season.[34] Led by Lovellette's 20.6 points and 13.5 rebounds, they advanced to the Conference Finals in 1956–57.