1.   Because of that, they start the playoffs against a dangerous Blazers team instead of the softer-touch Phoenix Suns.

2.   If they end up the first-round opponent instead of the Trail Blazers, the Lakers could be looking at another sweep to start the playoffs.

3.   If the streak can make it to four, against Portland in the season finale Wednesday, the Lakers will start the playoffs at home this weekend.

4.   Riley did not entirely embrace the message Heat forward Anthony Mason shaved into his head to start the playoffs.

5.   Snow started the playoffs for Philadelphia and played every game in a four-games-to-one first-round victory over Pittsburgh.

6.   Start the playoffs.

7.   Start the playoffs using bowl games in December and extend it through January, with a maximum of four teams still playing by the middle of the month.

8.   The biggest of which is starting the playoffs at home.

9.   The Comets regrouped to start the playoffs, with the offense and defense working well in back-to-back semifinal wins over Charlotte.

10.   The Knicks could still start the playoffs on the road if they lose their last two games, but at least they still control their own destiny.