I can't read this because of the paywall. ("Free registration" is just paying with my email and information.)
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I believe in the US, due to TV revenue, the Professional Orgs want playoffs to occur between Nationwide popular teams to maximize TV revenue. So they they want to avoid having 2 teams in the finals that will not generate nationwide ratings.
I have not watched any pro sports for decades. But going back, in basketball the 2 teams that generated huge ratings and buzz a long time ago were LA and Boston. I do not know what the "magic" teams combinations are now, but I am would not be surprised if the refs subtilely try to get the "popular" team to win.