The 2025-26 CBA playoffs continued with a thrilling Game 2 in the quarterfinal series between the Guangsha Lions and Shanxi Loongs. Guangsha secured a hard-fought 86-81 victory on the road, tying the series at 1-1. The Lions dominated the boards, with Hu Jinqiu, Wu Xiao, and Zhu Junlong leading the charge on the glass, which proved decisive for head coach Wang Bo.
Shanxi head coach Pan Jiang faced criticism for his late-game decision to bench starting center Liu Chuanxing, who had been performing well. After Liu’s exit, Guangsha’s interior completely took over. Hu Jinqiu and Wu Xiao each grabbed three offensive rebounds in the final quarter alone, generating multiple second-chance opportunities that sealed the win. Shanxi’s backup center Ge Zhaobao struggled from deep and offered little resistance defensively.
Despite these struggles, Pan Jiang continued to sideline Liu Chuanxing, opting for Ge or even smaller lineups. Many observers believe Liu, a 2.25-meter traditional center with proven CBA production, has lost his role in Shanxi. While his mobility is limited, his strength, rim protection, and rebounding remain elite. If Shanxi does not plan to utilize him, other teams may poach him—Guangdong Southern Tigers, Liu’s former club, are widely speculated as a potential destination.
Guangdong has a glaring weakness at the center position. With Jiao Boqiao likely out and Xu Xin’s future uncertain, the Tigers rely on Wang Shaojie, who lacks the size and strength to match top interior players like Zhou Qi, Hu Jinqiu, and Wang Zhelin. Acquiring Liu Chuanxing would give Guangdong a legitimate five-man who can anchor the paint and dominate the boards.
If Shanxi is eliminated in the quarterfinals, they may be open to moving Liu, making this an opportune time for Guangdong to strike.