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Despite combining for 13 playoffs appearances since since 2005, CSKA Moscow and Panathinaikos Athens face each other in this phase for the first time ever, which adds even more anticipation to this historic showdown. CSKA and Panathinaikos are six-time Euroleague champions and faced each other in the 2007 and 2009 title games, which the Greens won in Athens and Berlin, respectively. CSKA has won all of its eight playoffs series since 2005 and can get to the Final Four for the 11th time in 12 years. Panathinaikos has won five of its seven playoffs since 2005, with its only two defeats coming in the decisive third or fifth games. Former MVP Milos Teodosic will miss at least the first two games of the series due to injury, so CSKA will have to adjust to not having him by relying on Aaron Jackson and Jeremy Pargo. They will have to deal with Panathinaikos legend Dimitris Diamantidis and another Best Defender Trophy winner, big man Stephane Lasme. CSKA can put together a really strong, athletic lineup with Viktor Khryapa and Sonny Weems at both wings. CSKA starts the series with the home-court advantage, while Panathinaikos will also plan bring its own great crowd fully to bear on the series. Expect a long, physical battle which could very well go down to the wire.
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