The Washington Wizards made a statement on Sunday, cruising past the Toronto Raptors 125-94 to sweep their series 4-0.
It was the first time the Wizards have won a playoff series 4-0, while it was just their sixth series victory since they won the NBA title in 1978.
The effort was led not only by Washington's talented young backcourt of John Wall (14 points, 10 assists) and Bradley Beal (23 points) but also future Hall of Famer Paul Pierce, who has provided clutch scoring as well as leadership.
The Wizards won their first-round series 4-1 against the Chicago Bulls last season before losing 4-2 to the Indiana Pacers, and Washington coach Randy Whitman claimed his side are much more comfortable in the playoffs this year.
"I saw a much more confident group heading into the first round [this year], understanding what going on the road starting the post-season means," Whitman said.
The Wizards played like a team on a mission, while the Raptors played like they were ready for a vacation.
Washington fired on all cylinders offensively, shooting 58 per cent from the field and 65 per cent from three-point range.
In addition to big performances from Wall, Beal and Pierce (14 points), the Wizards also got outstanding contributions from Marcin Gortat (21 points, 11 rebounds) and others with seven players scoring in double-figures.
The Cleveland Cavaliers also wrapped up a clean sweep of their first-round series against the Boston Celtics, although they could be without Kevin Love for a prolonged period after he dislocated his shoulder in a 101-93 victory.
LeBron James (27 points, 10 rebounds) and Kyrie Irving (24, 11) led the way for the Cavs.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks kept their all-Texas series against the Houston Rockets alive, triumphing 121-109 at home.
Houston lead the series 3-1.