October 31st marked the official start of the new NBA season.
The league announced a new rule: any fouls against off-ball players in the final two minutes of each quarter or overtime would result in two free throws.
The media immediately pointed out who this benefited most—the Lakers.
"Looks like the league wants the Lakers to win the championship," one ESPN analyst commented bluntly.
That same day, ESPN released the updated championship probability rankings:
Lakers – 51%
Trail Blazers – 45% (thanks entirely to Zhao Dong's presence)
Nets – 38%
Philly 76ers – 32%
And for opening night? The schedule couldn't have been more perfect—Trail Blazers vs. Lakers at the Rose Garden Arena.
---
Pre-Game Fireworks
At noon on the 30th, the Lakers arrived in Portland. During a press conference at their hotel, Shaquille O'Neal sat before reporters with his usual bravado.
"We're going to beat the Trail Blazers," he declared, voice booming. "And I'm going to dominate Zhao Dong tomorrow night."
A Chinese reporter called Zhao Dong later that afternoon to ask for a response.
"Shaq's been swept in the Finals twice," Zhao Dong said casually. "I know he hates it, so I'll wish him good luck—not getting swept this year."
"Zhao Dong, are you saying you'll sweep the Lakers again in the Finals?" the reporter asked, excitement creeping into his voice.
Zhao Dong chuckled. "No. The Lakers won't even make the Finals next year."
The reporter paused, stunned for a moment, then laughed loudly.
The next morning, Zhao Dong's words dominated headlines.
"He's bragging again," O'Neal scoffed when asked by reporters. "He can't stop us this time. We'll beat the Trail Blazers, and we'll be back in the Finals."
Shaq had reason to be confident. He was at his peak—150 kilograms of unstoppable power. Kobe Bryant was stronger than ever, and with David Robinson now in the lineup, the Lakers had a terrifying interior duo.
The only weakness was at the small forward position after Glen Rice's departure. But Rice's decline last season meant the Lakers hadn't lost much.
---
By evening, the Rose Garden Arena was packed to capacity. Tickets for this game had been impossible to get, and season ticket sales had skyrocketed—several times higher than the previous year.
The Trail Blazers' locker room had been fully renovated after Zhao Dong's arrival. With Shawn Kemp gone, and the likes of Damon Stoudamire and Bonzi Wells keeping quiet, Zhao Dong had complete control of the locker room atmosphere.
Reporters were allowed in briefly before the game, including Yang Yi from CCTV.
"Zhao Dong," a reporter asked, "the Knicks' season ticket sales have plummeted by 30% compared to last year. Any thoughts?"
Zhao Dong smiled lightly. "Not much to say. I just wish the Knicks the best."
Yang Yi chuckled quietly. Everyone knew the Knicks were finished after trading Zhao Dong away. Four consecutive championships, gone—just like that.
But Zhao Dong harbored no resentment. The Knicks' owner had been on the brink of bankruptcy. He'd even voluntarily terminated his Madison Square Garden endorsement contract to ease their financial burden.
If not for Zhao Dong and Lindsay hiding most of their wealth, he would've been the richest man in the world by now. Money was the least of his worries.
---
At 8 PM sharp, the starting lineups were introduced:
Lakers:
Shaquille O'Neal
David Robinson
Rick Fox
Kobe Bryant
Ron Harper
Trail Blazers:
Zhao Dong
Jermaine O'Neal
Shawn Marion
Eddie Jones
Damon Stoudamire
On CCTV's live broadcast, Zhang Heli and Su Qun handled commentary as usual.
---
CCTV Commentary
"The league's tougher than ever this season," Zhang Heli began. "Especially with the Lakers and Nets. Both have dominant inside duos. Zhao Dong's Blazers are strong, but he's at a disadvantage."
Su Qun frowned slightly. "I heard Zhao Dong personally pushed for Jermaine O'Neal. But isn't he too raw? Why didn't Portland sign a proven big man? Zhao Dong would be better off at power forward—he's just not tall enough for center."
Zhang Heli shook his head. "It's not that they didn't want to trade—it's that they couldn't. Portland reportedly tried to get Robinson, but he chose the Lakers instead.
Good big men are rare now. Zhao Dong's insane efficiency has changed the league. Teams are desperate for skilled inside players because they need high-percentage scoring in the paint.
Right now, even a second-tier big man can get a superstar contract. This is the golden age for big men."
Su Qun nodded. "I heard when Duncan hit free agency, half the league went after him. The Magic even sent a private jet, but he still chose to team up with Yao Ming."
"Exactly," Zhang Heli agreed. "And that's why the Blazers' chances this year aren't great. Robinson and Duncan never considered Portland."
---
TNT Broadcast
Over in the U.S., TNT carried the national broadcast, with Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith at the commentary desk.
Holding the starting lineup card, Smith smirked. "Charles, Robinson joining the Lakers—Karl Malone and Iverson both said it's just another case of stars teaming up. What's your take?"
Barkley chuckled, his trademark grin flashing across the TNT broadcast.
"The Mailman and Iverson are jealous, no doubt. Robinson turned down Philly's invitation, and that's eating at them. As for teaming up? Hard to say. Robinson's not at his peak anymore—he's clearly declining—and Duncan just came back from a serious meniscus injury. Nobody can guarantee he's still a superstar."
Smith adjusted his tie, throwing out the next question.
"ESPN ranked the Nets, Brooklyn, Lakers, and Trail Blazers as the top four championship contenders. What's your take?"
Barkley laughed out loud.
"Obvious, isn't it? The Philly 76ers are at least half a tier below those teams. They're not strong enough to win it all."
Smith raised an eyebrow.
"You really don't think much of the Iverson–Mailman duo?"
Barkley shook his head.
"It's not about disrespect. They're just… not good enough anymore. Iverson and Karl Malone are still strong individually, but their roster hasn't improved. It's the same as last season—they're falling behind."
Smith leaned in.
"So you're saying the Trail Blazers are better than the 76ers? How?"
Barkley grinned.
"Simple. The Blazers have Zhao Dong. Philly doesn't."
Smith burst into laughter.
"You're such an idealist."
Barkley's laughter followed.
"Haha, call me whatever you want."
---
Tunnel Tension
Before the starting lineups were announced, the players met in the tunnel.
"Zhao Dong, wait for us to blow you up tonight!" O'Neal bellowed as soon as he spotted him.
Zhao Dong ignored the big man and turned to Robinson, his smile sharp.
"Mr. Admiral, hugging the Shark's thighs now? Careful—you'll lose all your dignity."
Robinson's jaw tightened.
"Aren't you doing the same thing?"
Zhao Dong laughed, shaking his head.
"Not even close. I got traded. Who did I rely on? I left four championship banners hanging in Madison Square Garden. What did you leave for San Antonio?"
"…"
Robinson's face flushed instantly. He couldn't argue. The Spurs were a mess after he and Duncan left, rebuilding from scratch. And Duncan? He'd bailed already. At thirty-five, Robinson didn't have many years left. Staying in San Antonio meant no shot at a ring. He knew he was right to leave, but it still stung hearing Zhao Dong say it aloud.
When the visiting Lakers jogged onto the court, boos rained down. After all, they were the team that had swept Portland in the Western Conference Finals.
Then, the Blazers entered. Zhao Dong's first game in Portland sparked chaos—every fan in the Rose Garden stood, and the deafening cheers rolled through the arena like a wave.
The Rose Garden didn't have the star-studded crowd of Madison Square Garden or the Wall Street suits flashing hundred-dollar bills. But the Portland fans were louder, more passionate, and completely unrestrained.
---
Opening Tip
Zhao Dong slapped Jermaine O'Neal's shoulder.
"Jermaine, you take the jump."
"Yes, Boss." Little O'Neal's voice was filled with excitement as he stepped up against Shaq.
O'Neal stared down at him, smirking.
"Kid, I can beat you with one hand."
Jermaine glanced nervously at Zhao Dong, like a younger brother asking an older brother for backup.
Zhao Dong sighed, almost amused.
"He says he's gonna beat you? Fine, then beat him first. Pin him to the floor and shut him up."
Jermaine's eyes lit up—fighting was something he understood.
O'Neal scowled.
"Zhao Dong! This is basketball, not a street fight!"
Kobe chimed in, grinning.
"Yeah, this is a basketball court, not a baseball diamond."
The referee, ready to toss the ball, blew his whistle in frustration. "Are you guys here to play ball or start a fight?"
Finally, the ball went up.
Bang!
Jermaine leaped high and slapped it away cleanly. O'Neal's eyes widened—he didn't expect that kind of bounce.
Portland moved into their half-court set. Zhao Dong and Jermaine both dropped into the low post, while three shooters spaced the floor. The ball swung to Damon Stoudamire at the top of the arc.
The Lakers locked into a man-to-man. Shaq planted himself on Zhao Dong, while Robinson shadowed on the weak side, ready to help.
On the left wing, Eddie Jones leaned hard into Kobe, hand out, demanding the ball from Stoudamire.
Jones had history with Kobe. Before the Lakers traded him, the two fought over ball dominance. Now, facing the team that had shipped him away for a younger Kobe, Jones burned for revenge.
He was still a two-way threat—strong defense, versatile offense, and a deadlier three-point shot than Kobe. Jordan's career average from deep was 32.7%, Kobe's 32.9%, but Jones sat at 37.3%.
Traded to Charlotte after the Lakers chose Kobe, Jones rotted on a terrible team. But now, playing alongside Zhao Dong, he finally had the stage to prove the Lakers wrong.
Stoudamire hesitated. He needed the ball to be effective—passing it meant sacrificing his own rhythm.
That split second was all Ron Harper needed.
Bang! Harper poked the ball loose and sprinted the other way.
Stoudamire chased desperately, but Harper crossed left, spun, and whipped the ball to the right wing.
Bang!
Kobe streaked in from the side, caught the pass mid-stride, and hammered home a dunk. The Lakers struck first.
---
TNT Booth
Smith's voice rose in excitement.
"Stoudamire got sloppy there. Ron Harper's still a defensive hawk, just like he was with the Bulls. And with Kobe, the Lakers' backcourt defense is among the best in the league."
Barkley laughed in the TNT booth, his voice full of mockery.
"In the Eastern Conference Finals, he got cooked by Kobe and Harper. His strength just isn't there yet. The Trail Blazers? They were swept by the Lakers for a reason—two levels weaker across every position."
As soon as Zhao Dong crossed half court, the Lakers had already scored again. He immediately barked out orders to Damon Stoudamire.
"Listen up. Once you cross half court, the ball's mine. No more nonsense."
Stoudamire expression stiffened.
"Got it."
He knew the truth—if he didn't give up the ball, Zhao Dong would have him glued to the bench. What he didn't realize was that, sooner or later, he was going to be traded anyway. Portland wasn't short on guards, and if push came to shove, Zhao Dong could play point guard himself—his vision and control were on par with Magic Johnson.
The Blazers set up. Stoudamire brought the ball to the top of the arc. Zhao Dong stepped out from the paint to the high post, caught the pass, and immediately shouted:
"Move!"
Eddie Jones and Stoudamire exchanged glances and started cutting hard, knowing Zhao Dong wasn't giving this possession up.
Shaq stepped up to body Zhao Dong at the high post. From the right wing, Shawn Marion slashed toward the rim. Zhao Dong palmed the ball with one hand and flicked a fake pass his way.
The sell was perfect.
Marion lunged with his hands out, convinced the ball was coming. Shaq spun his massive frame, expecting to help under the rim.
But Zhao Dong never passed.
The moment Shaq turned, Zhao Dong exploded, one dribble and then a leap into the paint. He rocketed off the floor, cocking the ball back as David Robinson, late to rotate, turned his head—too slow.
"Bang!"
The rim shook violently as Zhao Dong hammered the dunk over Robinson, knocking the Admiral backward and flat onto the hardwood.
"Beep!"
The referee pointed straight at Robinson. Blocking foul. And-one.
The Rose Garden erupted instantly, a tidal wave of cheers crashing across the arena.
"Woo! Woo! Woo!"
The in-arena commentator fired up the crowd, simulating bomber sounds over the PA system.
Zhao Dong, chest heaving, turned to his teammates.
"Are two super centers supposed to be invincible? We can still crush them!"
"Kill them!" Marion roared first, and the entire Blazers bench followed, fists pumping in the air.
---
In the TNT booth, Barkley was almost shouting.
"Did you see that? Did you SEE that?! Forget being just a so-called Golden Tyrant—Zhao Dong is a beast. He's that strong."
On CCTV, Zhang Heli's voice was equally excited.
"The last Finals already proved Shaq can't stop Zhao Dong. At best, it's an even fight. That dunk just showed that even with two elite centers, the Lakers' paint isn't untouchable. Zhao Dong can still tear them apart inside."
Su Qun offered a cautious reminder.
"But this series isn't just about offense under the rim. Portland still has to find a way to defend that two-center combo. The Lakers have a huge size advantage in the paint."
Zhao Dong calmly sank the free throw, completing the three-point play. On the next possession, the Lakers wasted no time going inside.
Shaq planted himself deep under the basket. Robinson drifted out to the right wing, pulling Zhao Dong with him, leaving Jermaine O'Neal one-on-one against the Shark.
"Bang!"
Shaq sealed O'Neal like a child, caught the entry pass, and dunked with ease.
Barkley shook his head.
"Too easy. The Shark is unstoppable down there."
Kenny Smith sighed.
"Jermaine's defense is weak. If he can't hold ground, at least front Shaq and try to deny the entry pass."
---
Zhao Dong wasn't surprised. Jermaine O'Neal had always been like this—even in his past life. Despite his athletic gifts, he preferred outside jumpers over physical post play. His midrange touch was nice, but in a league where Zhao Dong had shifted focus back to paint dominance, that style was outdated.
In fact, Jermaine's unwillingness to bang inside was why the Blazers never fully trusted him after Rasheed Wallace left. Without Zhao Dong here, his development would've been worse than it was originally.
Looking at his teammates, Zhao Dong felt the weight of the season. Among the starters, Jermaine was too soft, the backcourt was selfish and still fighting over possessions, and Marion hadn't matured yet. Winning a championship with this starting five felt like climbing to heaven barehanded.
But he had no choice. The system had finally given him a mission after two years of silence. Failing wasn't an option.
The bench unit was Portland's biggest advantage—he had to trust them.
---
As Shaq jogged back, Zhao Dong barked at Jermaine O'Neal.
"Jermaine! Can you guard him or not? If you can't, sit down. We've got plenty of guys who can replace you."
Jermaine blinked in shock.
"Boss…?"
He couldn't understand why Zhao Dong was being so harsh. But Zhao Dong didn't even look back—his focus was locked on Shaq, the next possession already forming in his mind.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Check my Pâtreon for (40) advanced chapters
Pâtreon .com/Fanficlord03
Change (â) to (a)
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
https://discord.gg/MntqcdpRZ9