Lakers, Celtics and Knicks miss out for first time

For the first time in NBA history, the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics and New York Knicks are all absent from the play-offs in the same season.

While that will not break any hearts for the 16 clubs who begin their championship quests this weekend, it does leave three of the most iconic franchise in NBA history struggling in search of a new direction.

"As a whole, the season was very disappointing for everybody," Lakers coach Mike D'Antoni said. "It's time to step away from it a little bit, reflect, get back together and get back to it."

- AFP.