Check out my new fanfics.
Dragon Emperor in Pokemon World.
The return of Itachi
I am Sasuke. Why should I defect from Konoha.
Please give it a go 😊
***
On the evening of June 5, 2002, Head coach Tom Thibodeau welcomed the first victory of his coaching career in the Finals.
After the game, this Rookie coach was in a great mood when he attended the press conference and openly admitted:
"Tonight's game exceeded our pre-game plan. Lee perfectly controlled the pace of the game."
"Lee is too outstanding. Perhaps the Lakers have some physical issues, but this is the Knicks' advantage. In the upcoming series, we will continue this game strategy!"
A decisive 113-95 victory made the New York Media ecstatic.
Although the big man on the opposing side was still unstoppable, the Lakers did not display the dominance they were expected to.
The series' momentum was exactly as Tom Thibodeau had described.
After Game 1, there was only a little over one day of rest, leaving very little room for the Lakers to adjust.
On the evening of the 7th, the Knicks won another game, 104-97.
The number of possessions in two consecutive games reached 93.
Although the team's shooting percentage was not high, the Lakers seemed unable to keep up with the game's pace.
On the evening of June 14th, in Game 5 of the Finals at Staples Center, as Robert Horry hit a three-pointer from the left wing, the Lakers fans erupted.
With 10.7 seconds left in the game, the score was 96-90.
The Lakers, facing a shot-clock violation, ultimately sank the three-pointer.
Tom Thibodeau reluctantly called a timeout.
The Knicks players walking towards the bench also looked up at the game, then sighed in frustration.
The Knicks used their last timeout.
Clay Lee naturally knew time was running out.
Assistant Coach Don Chaney was still drawing sideline out-of-bounds plays on the whiteboard, and everyone hadn't given up.
However, the Lakers didn't make any more mistakes.
As the inbound pass came, Lee received the ball, and Kobe, who rushed to defend, immediately fouled.
The referee blew his whistle, and Phil Jackson couldn't help but pump his fist in celebration on the sidelines.
All the Lakers fans in the arena stood up and applauded Kobe, who fouled out.
At the NBC commentary desk, Marv Albert also sighed regretfully:
"The Knicks were only 1 second away from completing the Defense, and Horry's big heart once again helped the Lakers!"
Mike Dunleavy, seeing that the Knicks could only resort to fouling after Lee made both free throws, also shook his head and added:
"The Lakers seized the opportunity at home. Shaquille O'Neal responded to the fouls against him with free throws."
"The Knicks naturally still have a chance. The next games are at their home. They should make Shaquille O'Neal play even harder."
At 98-92, Derek Fisher also withstood the pressure in the final moments.
As Lee's three-pointer missed, at the moment the game ended, Shaquille O'Neal hugged Robert Horry, excitedly shouting unconsciously.
Throughout the game, the Lakers were 6-of-25 from beyond the arc, and Robert Horry, who had been struggling with his shot throughout the series, played the role of a key player.
The Knicks were 8-of-26 from beyond the arc, maintaining their shooting touch from the series as usual.
Shaquille O'Neal, walking towards the player tunnel, kept his arm around Robert Horry, high-fiving fans on both sides, and finally stopped, took off his jersey, and happily yelled:
"Oh Fuck!!"
Phil Jackson also kept high-fiving, his face full of smiles, and his emotions were very excited.
Winning the crucial Game 5, the Lakers secured a match point, and the Championship was indeed beckoning to them.
Playing 44 minutes, he shot 15-of-24 from the field and 12-of-15 from the free-throw line, tallying 42 points, 14 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 block, and 4 turnovers.
Shaquille O'Neal, whose free throws were no longer a hindrance, still couldn't calm down when he attended the press conference.
Upon arriving, he loudly declared:
"I won! I won Game 5, I love Robert, God didn't abandon me!"
With a free throw percentage of 80%, and not being dragged down by free throws in such a crucial game, Shaquille O'Neal appeared particularly excited.
"Shaq, can you talk about the upcoming games? We've already secured the match point!"
The Los Angeles Times reporter was already eager to see the Lakers lift the o'brien cup!
Sitting down, Shaquille O'Neal grabbed the microphone and immediately confidently stated in a deep voice:
"Yes, we will end the series the night after tomorrow. I know what you want to ask. I don't feel tired. I've been waiting for this day for too long."
"..."
Regaining his Champion Coach demeanor, Phil Jackson resumed his earlier elegant appearance during the interview:
"All we need to do is stabilize the game's pace and get the ball into Shaq's hands."
"70 possessions? I don't care about that at all. We have a huge advantage in the paint, and the Lakers will stick to this game strategy."
After returning home, the Lakers' possessions further decreased.
They were more patient on offense, ensuring Shaquille O'Neal touched the ball on every possession.
Phil Jackson had long noticed that the Knicks' interior players were paper tigers.
After the "Respect Shaq Meeting," the Lakers completely unified their thinking.
Although the Los Angeles Media weren't overly boastful, the joy on their faces was evident to everyone.
Clay Lee played 45 minutes again tonight, shooting 16-of-27 from the field, 8-of-14 from three-point range, and 7-of-8 from the free-throw line, accumulating 47 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, and 3 turnovers.
He personally accounted for all of the Knicks' three-pointers, which was indeed a bit awkward.
The New York Post reporter couldn't hold back.
Seeing Lee sit on the stage, he immediately asked:
"Lee, we've noticed that our shooting seems to have been an issue in these recent games."
"Tonight, everyone else was 0-for-12 from beyond the arc. Is this why we lost?"
Noticing that the other party seemed to want to start a meeting, Lee did not "teammate CBA" but instead answered seriously:
"We lost only because we didn't execute the game's details as well as our opponents."
"Three-pointers are never the main reason for a loss, because the opponent's shooting percentage from beyond the arc was equally low."
"We were outrebounded by 6, and there were also some possessions where we didn't get back on Defense quickly enough, allowing the opponent to score easily."
"Basketball games are like that; it's all about response. Tonight, the opponent indeed performed exceptionally well; their free throws were excellent."
The New York Times reporter didn't dwell on these road games either.
Everyone was looking forward to the upcoming matches:
"Lee, how should we adjust for the upcoming home games?"
Lee thought for a moment and continued to answer seriously:
"We need to make Shaquille O'Neal play even harder, at least get his free throw percentage around 50 percent."
"Every possession is very important, and we must stick to our game strategy."
On June 15th, the intensity of the Finals was still escalating.
Although many onlookers claimed to be tired of the matchup, when the Knicks were about to lose, the fun-seekers became energized.
On the TNT program, Jeff Van Gundy was already on fire.
The series' progression was exactly as the Bald Young Coach had predicted!
In the studio, the trio looked at Jeff Van Gundy with expressions of respect.
The Champion Coach's reputation was well-deserved.
Still in a black suit, white shirt, and red tie, as the Knicks lost the pivotal Game 5, Jeff Van Gundy seemed to be on fire, recently radiating vitality.
"The Knicks' perimeter Defense is excellent. In several games, Lindsey Hunter, Derek Fisher, and Devin George's three-point shooting was off."
"As the series has progressed, the Lakers' three-point percentage hasn't exceeded 30 percent, but the heavy pressure on the ball handler has also caused the Knicks' shooting percentage to further decline."
"When both teams' perimeter shooting returns to the same level, it tests scoring consistency. This year, the Knicks' interior Defense intensity has dropped significantly, and this problem can only be solved through trades."
As soon as Jeff Van Gundy finished speaking, Charles Barkley, sitting on the sofa on the other side of the studio, asked with a serious expression:
"Can the Lakers end the series tomorrow night, and what adjustments do they need to make?"
Noticing the respectful gazes of the trio, Jeff Van Gundy felt particularly pleased.
Facing the camera, he loudly replied:
"Coach Phil Jackson only needs to stick to this game strategy and control the end of the game, and they have a very high probability of winning the game."
"Lee is not a robot. When he finds his shooting touch, he can indeed make consecutive shots from beyond the arc."
"The Lakers' choice to double-team and let others handle the ball is absolutely the correct choice. The more crucial the possession, the more it can slow down the Knicks' offensive rhythm."
"Plus, the Lakers can also grab some long rebounds for easy scores. This year, they have a great chance to win the Championship."
Kenny Smith nodded repeatedly, feeling that the Bald Young Coach was prophetic.
The Knicks won two straight home games, yet he predicted the Lakers would counterattack, and he was spot on:
"Do the Knicks still have a chance? Or rather, how should they adjust to force a Game 7?"
Jeff Van Gundy smiled slightly, appearing even more confident, and said firmly:
"Being able to deliver such a performance has already exceeded my expectations. It's very difficult for Pau Gasol and Thomas to score efficiently on offense."
"Two-way play is too demanding for them."
"Back at Madison Square Garden, the New York Knicks should continue to attack the paint, which will ensure their response shots won't be an issue."
"I believe Lee can still get good stats, but in this series, Defense is the key, and the New York Knicks still need time."
The live director timely displayed Pau Gasol's stats for 5 games:
He averaged 13.1 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 2.2 turnovers, with a field goal percentage of 42.0% and a free throw percentage of 80.0%.
With an average of 11.2 shots per game, this Rookie's efficiency has plummeted, and he's even having trouble with easy baskets under the rim.
Ernie Johnson was completely convinced by the Bald Young Coach's comments and followed up with a question:
"Jeff, do you think the New York Knicks' role players will explode when they return home?"
Feigning a look of contemplation about the players' performance, Jeff Van Gundy confidently replied again:
"From a technical style perspective, it's difficult for Grant and the other starters to have an explosive performance."
"The New York Knicks' problem is Defense. They haven't been able to completely wear down their opponents."
"The Los Angeles Lakers' role players have the same problem. Perhaps Kobe will have an explosive performance, but in this series, he's getting fewer and fewer opportunities, and he's sacrificed for the team."
"Victory still depends on details and Defense. I'm really looking forward to Game 6."
The live director quickly showed Grant Hill's stats:
He averaged 19.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.2 steals, and 2.4 turnovers, with a field goal percentage of 49.0% and a free throw percentage of 81.0%.
With an average of 15.2 shots per game, Grant Hill was consistently efficient, but overall, as Jeff Van Gundy commented, he lacked scoring explosiveness.
Especially on the road, the entire New York Knicks team's free throws started to decrease, and Grant Hill seemed even more ordinary.
In the studio, the four people quickly started discussing the Los Angeles Lakers' performance again.
At the end of the show, Jeff Van Gundy didn't forget to make some sarcastic remarks about the New York Knicks' management:
"This offseason, if the New York Knicks want to continue contending for the championship, they'll have to re-plan their bench lineup."
"Over-reliance on the starting lineup is also a problem exposed in this year's playoffs. In limited playing time, bench players find it difficult to find their game rhythm."
"The New York Knicks are still in a rebuilding phase, which is good news for Eastern Conference teams. Next season, they also have a chance to make it to the Finals."
The Bald Young Coach also didn't forget to remind the general managers of the Eastern Conference teams about the New York Knicks' threat.
The trio beside him didn't think anything was wrong.
Jeff Van Gundy's mood grew increasingly cheerful, and he subtly showed a hint of smugness, leaning back in a tactical pose:
"What is a Champion Coach?"
On June 16th, after the New York Knicks returned to Madison Square Garden, their shooting also recovered a little.
By the last quarter, watching Shaq steadily making free throws after frequently stepping to the free throw line, the boos became incessant.
At the free throw line, Shaq once again sent the ball into the basket.
Tom Thibodeau called a timeout, and Shaq jumped happily, jogging back to the bench.
106:102, with 11.8 seconds left in the game, the New York Knicks used their last timeout.
The referees, clearly wanting to add some drama, exchanged glances.
They rarely called a foul on Shaq, but the opponent actually made both free throws.
The Los Angeles Lakers also had no timeouts left at this point.
The game wasn't over, and Phil Jackson was still very nervous.
He widened his eyes, tossed the clipboard aside, and squatted in front of everyone, speaking loudly:
"Foul! Time is on our side! Foul immediately after they inbound the ball!"
Seeing the Head Coach's intense gaze, the Los Angeles Lakers players also reined in their excitement.
Shaq was substituted out and kept clapping on the sidelines, loudly reminding his teammates.
The New York Knicks players huddled together at the free throw line.
Lee didn't choose to move up the court but instead, after the referee's whistle, used a screen to suddenly run towards the far left sideline.
Pau Gasol, inbounding from the baseline, successfully threw the ball, and Kobe, who was defending him, gritted his teeth and rushed to defend after being reminded by his teammates.
In the left corner, the moment Lee received the ball, Kobe pounced on him, and the referee immediately blew the whistle.
Although he had already shot after receiving the ball, after the referee signaled two free throws, Tom Thibodeau and the hype group on the sidelines began to complain loudly.
"Boo!"
The New York fans on site also cooperated with Lee to pressure the referee.
Fans from both sides surrounded the sideline referee, complaining loudly and simultaneously.
After a few minutes of delay, and after a review by the scorer's table, the referee still signaled two free throws.
At the NBC commentary desk, Marv Albert was somewhat disappointed:
"Both sides have no timeouts left. If it's just two free throws, and the Los Angeles Lakers don't turn the ball over and make their free throws on the next possession, then time will run out."
Mike Dunleavy glanced at the box score and commented simply:
"Even if the game goes into overtime, for the New York Knicks, Wright has already fouled out with 6 fouls, and Pau Gasol also has 5 fouls."
"Shaq's foul control tonight was excellent. Of course, I'd rather praise his free throws!"
After making both free throws, the score became 106:104.
The Los Angeles Lakers barely managed to inbound the ball, and ultimately Lee sent Derek Fisher to the free throw line.
With 8.2 seconds left in the game, "D-Fish" was sweating profusely from nervousness.
His headband had long been discarded.
He bounced the ball at the free throw line for a long time, and amidst the boos of the New York fans, the basketball finally bounced and stumbled into the basket.
After ensuring they wouldn't lose, Derek Fisher visibly relaxed, and his second free throw went in steadily.
In the final moments, the Los Angeles Lakers collectively swarmed Lee, resulting in another free throw.
At Madison Square Garden, the New York fans booed wildly.
Although they were prepared for a loss, seeing the Los Angeles Lakers' bench celebrating wildly, the New York fans watching the game naturally weren't in a good mood.
In the free throw shootout, neither side missed.
In the final moments, Kobe made both free throws, Lee's super long three-pointer missed, and the Los Angeles Lakers players rushed onto the court and huddled together.
110:106, ultimately, the New York Knicks still lost the game.
Shaq hugged Phil Jackson and shouted before suddenly bursting into tears. In the two most crucial games, he finally redeemed himself through free throws.
Kobe raised his hands in celebration before sitting in the middle of the court, covering his face with his hands, crying uncontrollably.
Clay Lee was originally in a bad mood, but seeing the Los Angeles Lakers suddenly burst into tears, his expression became strange for a moment.
This was clearly supposed to be his script.
Derek Fisher was the first to step forward and hug Lee in greeting.
"D-Fish" first hugged Lee, and before he could say anything, he also started to cry.
Lee watched him sobbing loudly while hugging him, pushed him twice but couldn't get him off, and helplessly comforted him:
"Congratulations, Bro! You guys played a perfect game!"
Noticing that the sports media had gathered around, Derek Fisher then awkwardly bumped fists with Lee:
"I'm so excited! I thought we would keep losing. Sorry, Lee, I'm just so excited."
On the New York Knicks' bench, Ron Artest was in a state of self-isolation.
Although the opponent shot 4-of-15 from beyond the arc tonight, their shooting was still poor.
However, Kobe shot 10-of-21 from the field and 11-of-11 from the free throw line, scoring 31 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1 turnover.
In a crucial game, his opponent found his shooting touch while he performed poorly.
Ron Artest, whose team option was coming up, felt extremely uncomfortable.
Stephen Jackson, beside him, comforted his good brother.
Losing a game by just one or two possessions was truly frustrating.
Players from both sides simply shook hands in greeting.
Shaq, with red eyes, bumped fists with Lee and finally said with a laugh:
"It's my turn to win! Next year I'll defend the title, no one in the Eastern Conference is our opponent!"
"Congratulations, Shaq! I look forward to facing you again in the Finals. Enjoy your victory!"
Lee simply offered his blessings.
He wasn't clear about the Los Angeles Lakers' specific situation.
Whether they could break out of the Western Conference again was still an unknown.
Soon, Shaq started hugging everyone he saw, while Kobe, who had adjusted his emotions, saw his "arch-nemesis" looking calm, and his mood soured again.
In the Finals, his stats naturally couldn't compare to Shaq's.
The FMVP was definitely not going to be his.
After the excitement, Kobe had a few more ulterior motives.
"Congratulations, Bro! It seems you've mastered how to enter the white-hot space. It's great to see your growth."
Lee patted Kobe, and the latter's mood worsened upon hearing "white-hot space."
Kobe, who trained desperately, never really felt any "space," but every time he saw Lee's stats, he would believe this theory.
He played 46 minutes, shooting 17-of-29 from the field, 7-of-15 from three-point range, and 10-of-12 from the free throw line, scoring 51 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 steals, and 3 turnovers.
Throughout the series, Lee's field goal percentage was only below 50% in Game 3.
The more crucial the game, the more he shot, and the higher his field goal percentage.
Kobe felt speechless thinking about this, but on the surface, he put on a facade of "I also entered the space" and replied confidently:
"Yes, I did it! Soon I'll catch up to your achievements. I'll keep winning. Sorry, but the era after this belongs to me!"
(A/N: Biggest scam😂)
Kobe, having adjusted his emotions, smiled and tilted his head, chatting.
After some mutual compliments, Lee patted his shoulder again and blessed him:
"Go for it! Bro, the future belongs to you!"
"..."
Phil Jackson was in a good mood.
Without Van Gundy's smug face, he was back to being the Champion Coach.
After the game, he gracefully congratulated the Knicks players one by one.
The "Kentucky Fried Chicken Old Man" had proven himself again this year.
The "Kentucky Fried Chicken" chicken soup nauseated Lee.
Although he didn't like Van Gundy, as a Knicks legend, he still had some prestige in New York.
After finally getting rid of the Los Angeles Lakers crowd, as Lee walked towards the player tunnel, fans on both sides were still shouting his name and applauding.
James Dolan stood by the entrance to the player tunnel, feeling some regret.
If Shaquille O'Neal had missed that last free throw, there might have been a Game 7:
"Don't worry, Lee! In less than two seasons, the team will have All-Star players, and we'll soon win the championship again!"
The curly-haired boss put his arm around Lee, and the staff nearby started pouring out encouragement.
At Madison Square Garden, New York fans naturally didn't leave.
Everyone continued to boo the Los Angeles Lakers.
As long as the opponent was unhappy, everyone felt good.
David Stern also felt some regret.
If it could have been dragged to Game 7, viewership would have surged!
This was likely NBC's last broadcast, and it was unknown whether the broadcast effect could be maintained once subsequent broadcasters took over.
Smiling, he exchanged pleasantries with the Los Angeles Lakers owner.
Jerry Buss was especially excited.
If no one were around, he would have wanted to lift the o'brien cup directly.
The "OK Combo" finally won a championship after six seasons.
The Los Angeles Lakers management also breathed a sigh of relief.
If they lost again, the team would have to rebuild.
Watching the Los Angeles Lakers reminisce about their struggles, New York fans continued to boo.
Jerry Buss was unaffected and lifted the o'brien cup high amidst the players' cheers.
Soon, Shaquille O'Neal got the o'brien cup, and remembering his experiences over the years, he couldn't help but tear up again, clutching the o'brien cup tightly.
Phil Jackson also applauded nearby.
His sixth championship, he had done it, six is greater than four, surpassing Jeff Van Gundy, and he felt extremely pleased.
Kobe, wearing a Los Angeles Lakers championship hat and T-shirt, stared longingly at the o'brien cup, especially when he saw the golden spherical FMVP trophy, his eyes filled with desire.
What he had hoped for didn't happen.
Kobe heard David Stern, microphone in hand, happily say:
"Entering the Finals for three consecutive years, and after consecutive failures, finally winning the championship!"
"Averaging 37.7 points, 13.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.5 steals, 1.5 blocks, an unparalleled performance, the 2001-2002 Finals FMVP belongs to Shaquille O'Neal!"
Scoring 40+ in two consecutive crucial games, with a 57.3% field goal percentage and 63.8% free throw percentage over six games, Shaquille O'Neal ultimately found redemption through his free throws.
Holding two trophies, Shaquille O'Neal finally smiled happily and shouted emotionally to the sports media below the stage:
"Yee!!"
Tonight, the visiting team's locker room would naturally be filled with the smell of champagne.
When Lee returned to the locker room, he noticed Ron Artest was still in a self-isolated state, so he finally spoke to reassure him:
"Alright, Ron, losing is losing. We didn't lose because of your performance."
"Our Defense was very good. The opponent's outside shooting percentage never exceeded 30%."
"The team option will be exercised in the offseason. No one will give up a DPOY."
"Of course, the kind of contract you get will depend on your stats next year."
Hearing Lee's words, Ron Artest finally relaxed.
His relatives and friends were all here, making it easy to show off, and he didn't want to leave Manhattan.
"I'll throw myself into the training facility during the offseason. I swear I'll make those open shots next year."
Ron Artest quickly stated his position.
He knew too well the consequences of declining performance.
Even without Lee saying anything, New York fans would first curse him, and then management would trade him without hesitation.
Pau Gasol, who had become a "paper man" in the series, was also in low spirits.
His performance naturally wouldn't satisfy the fans in Spain who followed him.
Soon, everyone started imagining the future, and Lee didn't pay much attention.
He never expected Rookies to explode, nor did he expect role players to save the team in crucial games.
Grant Hill was also in a bad mood, but he couldn't bring himself to complain about teammates after a loss, which was a classless thing to do:
"Lee, will you accept the national team's invitation during the offseason?"
Grant Hill's words caught everyone's attention.
Lee pointed to the scars on his body and shrugged:
"I plan to rest well. I've played too many games, and my body has taken a toll."
"These guys hit hard!"
The Los Angeles Lakers' desperate double-teaming naturally involved a lot of physical contact, but Lee mostly ignored minor injuries.
He had no interest in playing in the World Championship during the offseason.
Grant Hill had also received an invitation.
He had been hesitant before, but hearing Lee's words, he decided to decline to play.
Instead of attending training camp, he'd rather continue to refine his shooting.
Even Shaquille O'Neal's free throw percentage could exceed 60%, so Grant Hill felt his three-point shooting could also reach an average level.
When Coach Tom Thibodeau arrived in the locker room, he naturally sensed the uneasy emotions of the atmosphere group.
In this year's Finals, the Knicks played with almost a seven-man rotation, pushing the starters to their limits.
Tom Thibodeau didn't trust Rookies, and the starting lineup's playing time was maximized.
As Head Coach, he should have encouraged everyone and appeased the role players' emotions, but Tom Thibodeau wasn't even sure if he could continue as Head Coach, so he couldn't make grand promises to everyone:
"Thank you for your hard work. Although we lost the game, there's still a bonus this year."
"Lee and Grant gave up their shares, so don't forget to thank them!"
Hearing there was still money, the atmosphere group became lively again, and then a strong sense of reluctance welled up in their hearts.
If they were traded to another team, they might not receive this kind of treatment.
"Afraid your brother lives a hard life, but also afraid your brother drives a Land Rover."
Lee, who had lost the game, received a large number of text messages, which surprised him.
His fair-weather friends had surprisingly returned.
Attending the post-game press conference, Lee had already changed into a dark gray suit.
When he sat on the stage, the press officer pointed to the Los Angeles Times reporter:
"Clay, your winning streak has ended. What are your thoughts now?"
The Los Angeles sports media was in a good mood.
After asking the question, smiles were still on their faces.
Lee calmly replied:
"Basketball is round. If you lose, just win it back. The team is still very young, and time is still on our side."
The ESPN reporter could also sense Lee's relatively calm emotions.
At this moment, he subtly probed:
"Lee, was the loss related to your offensive choices? The Los Angeles Lakers got many easy transition scoring opportunities."
In six games, he averaged 44.2 minutes per game, scoring 42.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 7.5 assists, 2.0 steals, and 2.8 turnovers per game.
His field goal percentage was 53.6%, three-point percentage was 44.3%, and free throw percentage was 91.4%.
The sports media had obviously noticed Lee's outrageous average of 12.7 three-point attempts per game.
"A large number of three-point attempts will inevitably give the opponent transition offense opportunities, but I will not change my playing style."
"Because more and more teams are choosing to double-team me, in the playoffs, pick-and-roll opportunities are becoming fewer, and face-up isolations are also difficult to come by."
Lee pondered for a moment, stroking his chin, then seriously added:
"The loss is likely because my shooting wasn't accurate enough. I plan to increase my shooting range, which should give me easy scoring opportunities."
The sports media below the stage were bewildered.
Increase shooting range?
They thought Lee would say increase mid-range shooting.
The TNT reporter looked at Lee's serious face and felt this was no joke.
He couldn't comment on this, so he simply changed the subject and asked:
"Lee, after losing to the Los Angeles Lakers, how do you think the team should adjust in the offseason?"
"Will you seek trades?"
This question made everyone perk up their ears.
Lee didn't think too much and immediately replied:
"This is everyone's first year playing together, and I think everyone performed exceptionally well this season."
"To succeed in the NBA, you should leverage your strengths. Our perimeter Defense is very good, and our big men need time to grow."
"Of course, the team will supplement the rotation in the offseason to improve fault tolerance."
Hearing this answer, the sports media below the stage felt some regret, having expected a big scoop.
Later, when Shaquille O'Neal, smelling of champagne and holding two trophies, appeared before everyone with a loud laugh, the Los Angeles media began to lavish praise.
O'Neal, already ecstatic, felt like he was going to heaven tonight.
He happily placed the two trophies in front of him, adjusted the microphone, and loudly said with a wide grin:
"From this moment on, the era of Shaq has arrived!"
"I fulfilled my promise. This year the MVP is home!"
Losing made the record meaningless, but the New York Media enjoyed themselves, continuing to hype and celebrate.
The fan war among young fans had just begun, and the "Knicks lost, but Lee didn't" fans decided to fight the inflated Los Angeles Lakers fans to the end this offseason!
On June 21st, the Los Angeles Lakers, back in Los Angeles, also held a grand championship parade.
The entire city was boiling, and Shaq was still in an inflated state.
Finally, when giving a speech at the Southern California University terminus, Shaq didn't forget to make his promise, and incidentally, mock Lee:
"I know you are not satisfied. The era belonging to the Los Angeles Lakers has just begun!"
"I promise everyone, I will always stay in Los Angeles. I like it here!"
"We will continue to win championships!"
"Not one, Not two, Not three"
The Los Angeles fans below also cheered joyfully, going "Not" all the way to Seven.
On the other side, Kobe and his teammates watched Shaq, who had started to rap, with different emotions.
Derek Fisher was very happy.
He would also be a Champion Point Guard from now on.
Fox, Horry, and Brian Shaw also couldn't stop smiling.
Only Kobe didn't seem happy.
Even though Vanessa, beside him, hugged him and laughed non-stop, Kobe still didn't feel the happiness he had imagined after winning the championship.
The Kentucky Fried Chicken Old Man also couldn't stop smiling.
Having won the championship, Phil Jackson regained respect!
While the Lakers were busy celebrating, the Knicks were naturally busy with the draft.
Because the Golden Club was completely shut down by the FBI, Kaplan, despite his efforts to donate, still couldn't escape sanctions.
The ripple effect was that Ewing, who had once been high-profile in his prostitution activities, also found himself in trouble.
As a loyal fan of the Knicks, Kaplan did often introduce girls to Gorilla.
Others would go and play discreetly, but Ewing would call friends and throw lavish parties.
Fortunately, after winning the championship, Ewing's reputation in New York reversed, otherwise, the New York Media, who loved to watch the fun, would likely have started a mass mockery.
On the morning of the 21st, at the Tarrytown Training Center, although Ewing couldn't join the coaching staff as scheduled due to his reputation, as a recently retired team legend, he naturally participated in the team's construction.
In General Manager Grunfeld's office, Ewing, who had gotten fat, sat on the sofa and complained about the Finals:
"If Shaq's free throw percentage was around 50%, I guarantee you, we would be having the championship parade right now!"
"Not being able to make shots isn't important; what's important is that we also have to make the opponent lose their shooting touch."
"Pau Gasol is still too young. Besides fouling, he has difficulty limiting super centers. Kurt has to help him on Defense, which is why the Los Angeles Lakers' role players performed well."
"In this year's draft, we should pick a big man and have Pau Gasol play Power Forward; perhaps that's the best option."
"His skills are good. He can comfortably initiate offense from both the left and right sides, so he needs a tall inside defender to partner with him."
Gorilla put on an expert demeanor, and General Manager Grunfeld nodded secretly, but felt somewhat helpless to complain.
Ewing complained that Pau Gasol was a bit soft, but considering his playoff experience, he wasn't exactly tough either.
"Lee, what do you think? We pick a center; there are indeed a few good big men this year!"
Hearing the General Manager's question, Lee, looking at the material in his hand, frowned slightly and said helplessly:
"At the 8th pick, we can't get the big men listed."
"Let's stick to the team's original plan!"
Nene Hilario and Drew Gooden, those two big men, wouldn't fall to the Knicks.
They weren't even actively trying out, clearly having already received promises.
Ewing looked down on high school Rookies.
Gorilla always believed that those who hadn't played NCAA would likely fail:
"Lacking tactical awareness, I even doubt if this young fellow can understand those tactics."
"Basketball isn't just about physical attributes. A big man who can only dunk can't survive in the NBA."
Lee was dressed casually today, and seeing Ewing put on a bossy demeanor again, he couldn't help but tease him:
"Pat, perhaps this guy isn't suitable for the Knicks, but talented people will always receive more favor."
"Just like Kwame Brown, although he performed very poorly for the Washington Wizards this season, everyone still has expectations for him."
"My agent told me that if there's a trade, the Washington Wizards have many options."
Ewing shook his head slightly again.
Although he had been particularly low-key recently, he had still been keeping up with NBA gossip:
"Michael Jordan isn't suitable for coaching Rookies, and neither are you. Pau Gasol has played professional leagues. High schoolers don't have that much game experience."
"However, the Knicks' environment has indeed changed, and this is a good attempt."
General Manager Grunfeld heard their casual chat, and remembering the curly-haired boss's instructions, he immediately felt that this Rookie had no bright future.
If he couldn't show immediate combat effectiveness, he would eventually be traded.
On June 26th, the 2002 NBA Draft was held at Madison Square Garden.
That evening, Lee, Ewing, and General Manager Grunfeld appeared at the venue.
The Husky's Rookie, Caron Butler, didn't forget to greet Lee.
Every Rookie going through the draft is nervous, but Caron Butler's college stats were very good, and his physical attributes were excellent, so there was no pressure in the lottery.
Perhaps due to the poor record in his first season back and his chosen number one pick being a bust, Michael Jordan was not present from the Washington Wizards' side tonight.
After greeting familiar staff members, Lee saw Jeff Van Gundy pulling Ewing aside and talking non-stop.
The Bald Young Coach had been immensely popular recently, and tonight he was interpreting Rookies for the TNT broadcast.
Jeff Van Gundy had only given a brief greeting earlier, and General Manager Grunfeld was already somewhat dissatisfied with his performance, now muttering quietly beside Lee:
"Jeff seems to want Pat to join his coaching staff, you know, Lee! The boss doesn't like Ewing's recent troubles. That would affect the team's image."
The collective prostitution incident, of course, must be denied at all costs.
It was indeed very negative.
Noticing the Houston Rockets' staff members at the venue looking joyful, Grunfeld started gossiping again:
"It is said that the big man from across the ocean demanded to be picked first to play in the NBA."
"The Houston Rockets made the promise, and then a miracle was born!"
Such gossip had long spread throughout the American sports world, and of course, limited by the domestic environment, there were naturally other "unequal treaties."
"Yao Ming is worth a first overall pick. Isn't the NBA always hoping to fully open up the international market? This is a good thing."
Lee answered casually, and then noticed the gloomy expressions on the faces of several people from the Phoenix Suns.
As in his memory, when David Stern announced that the Houston Rockets had selected Yao Ming from the Shanghai Sharks with the first overall pick, the broadcast cut to the other side.
A youthful Yao Ming and his family, wearing Houston Rockets hats, embraced each other, with NBA staff behind them applauding.
(A/N: Obviously, he's just an average player but somehow he's become superman even better than Shaq in chinese people's mind. They always shout that only if...what if.. Refused to accept reality. In every chinese nba fanfics, you'll see mc licking Yao Ming like a dog. Don't worry. I'll delete all those here.)
The Chicago Bulls selected Jay Williams from Duke University with the second overall pick.
The Golden State Warriors selected Mike Dunleavy Jr. from Duke University with the third overall pick.
As the Knicks team had anticipated, the Grizzlies picked Drew Gooden, and the Denver Nuggets picked Nene Hilario.
Finally, the Knicks selected Amare Stoudemire with the eighth overall pick.
Hearing his name called, this Rookie went on stage and put on the Knicks hat, grinning from ear to ear.
Not long ago, at the McDonald's All-American High School Game held at Madison Square Garden, Lee had already greeted this Rookie.
This Florida Mr. Basketball was surrounded by the New York Media as he walked off the stage.
General Manager Grunfeld noticed that Lee only smiled and waved at the Rookie, and then thinking about the Knicks' internal competitive environment and the raw skills of a high school Rookie, he silently thought:
"Kid, good luck!"
.....
By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)