They say the NBA playoffs are a second season, a clean slate, and perhaps none of the 16 postseason teams welcomes that more than the Portland Trail Blazers.
It was a regular season that pierced them emotionally and physically.
It's been a long, bumpy road, Blazers. But now the highway narrows and leads to one destination: The Larry O'Brien Trophy.
Welcome to the second season. It's when the play becomes more physical, when every possession counts. And when legends are made.
The NBA playoffs are here. And the Blazers say they are ready.
-- Video by Jason Quick and Bruce Ely