In this NBA, this much is already clear: There will be a new champion. The second round of the NBA playoffs start on Saturday (Sunday in Manila), and nowhere to be found are the franchises that have combined to win almost two-thirds of the titles awarded in league history. Of last year's final four in the NBA, only Denver is back in the final eight this season. The defending champion Lakers went out in Round 1, limping to a six-game loss by Phoenix. It all means the path to the finals is wide open for the first time in years and a breakthrough awaits someone.

Source: Manila Times June 05, 2021 00:33 UTC