I agree with and have had similar experiences in regards to getting permits for the MMWT as DUG.
The worst thing that can happen is to get to see a better area in the Sierra...yes, there are better areas.
The only time I was skunked for permit was Big Pine Lakes. We ended up in the Bishop Pass area for the first time...if that is losing, let me lose some more. As an aside, there were plenty of backpacking permits available for the MMWT that 4th of July weekend in 2006.
