The Philadelphia 76ers are no longer just a mere stepping stone for the Chicago Bulls on their way to tougher battles in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
They're a major hurdle now.
Losing reigning NBA MVP Derrick Rose had an immediate impact on the top-seeded Bulls in this first-round series. After dominating the Sixers in the opener, they were routed 109-92 in Game 2 Tuesday night.
Now the best-of-7 series shifts to Philadelphia on Friday night. The underdog Sixers are confident about their chances.
NBA Playoffs
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San Antonio Spurs 114, Utah Jazz 83
(Spurs lead best-of-seven Western quarterfinal, 2-0)
Indiana Pacers 97, Orlando Magic 74
(Pacers lead best-of-seven Eastern quarterfinal, 2-1)
Memphis Grizzlies 105, Los Angeles Clippers 98
(Best-of-seven Western quarterfinal tied, 1-1)