When the game clock ran out, LeBron James, who had played 44 minutes, looked a little dejected as he saw the Thunder players celebrating wildly on their home court.
Ultimately, the Thunder defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 108-96 at home.
With 50 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 turnovers, LeBron James had given his all in this game. After his stamina dropped in the fourth quarter, he couldn't withstand the multi-pronged attack of the Thunder.
For the Cavaliers, only Mo Williams managed to score 16 points with inefficient isolation plays, barely helping LeBron James with the offensive load. All other rotation players were invisible.
Shaquille O'Neal only played 18 minutes in this game. When Kayce, Westbrook, and Durant of the Thunder started running pick-and-rolls with the center and consistently hitting mid-range shots, Head Coach Mike Brown knew that the old Shaquille O'Neal was no longer effective.
Starting Anthony Parker and reserve Jamario Moon were completely outplayed by Kayce. Inside, Zydrunas Ilgauskas gave up points as soon as he came on.
Only Anderson Varejão could still grab some rebounds. Without LeBron James's assists, the other Cavaliers players were completely lost.
After the game, players from both sides hugged each other in greeting. LeBron James also found Kayce, initiating a mutual praise session:
"Kayce, an incredible performance. It's hard to believe you're still a rookie. Keep this up, take care of your body, and you'll be a future Hall of Famer!"
"I'm far from you, Bro. You tore apart our defense, 50 points, incredible offense. I hope you make it to the NBA Finals again this season, maybe we'll face each other again then!"
Kayce also went all out, showing off his talent for mutual praise.
"Haha, I hope so, keep it up! Bro!"
LeBron James smiled knowingly at Kayce's blessing. The two exchanged a flurry of compliments, chatting happily. The 'superficial brothers' alliance gained another heavyweight member.
"Kayce can talk to everyone. I don't want to say a bunch of compliments after the game!"
Having finally beaten James, Durant's biggest wish was to immediately go on Twitter and clap back at those unscrupulous commentators. He was already impatient.
"That's why everyone likes Kayce. It was like that in college, and it hasn't changed since he came to the NBA. O'Neal actually went straight back to the locker room, what a petty guy!"
Westbrook played exceptionally well in this game and was in high spirits.
"O'Neal might be unhappy with his playing time. It seems the Cavaliers' locker room isn't peaceful either."
Jeff Green played more and more relaxed in this game, contributing his outside firepower with two three-pointers in the fourth quarter.
"Alright, guys, come over here. We need to thank the Oklahoma City fans!"
Coach Brooks was in a good mood. This game was a complete tactical victory. No matter how strong LeBron James's individual ability was, he still couldn't beat the multi-rotation Thunder.
At the ESPN broadcast booth, Van Gundy was also giving a post-game summary for both teams.
"What I want to say is that the Cavaliers' acquisitions this season might have failed.
The combination of O'Neal and LeBron didn't achieve the strong effect people expected. In my opinion, the Cavaliers need a second ball-handler more."
Van Gundy offered some sharp concluding remarks.
"It might be too early to make a judgment. I must commend LeBron James; he allowed us to witness an ultimate individual offensive performance."
"But I still want to praise the Thunder's young men again. The tactical execution was excellent, and the Thunder's trio also performed outstandingly."
"Kayce had 22 points, 4 rebounds, and 9 assists; Kevin had 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists; Russell had 21 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists. These three almost accounted for all of the Thunder's scoring in the fourth quarter."
Mark Jackson didn't offend either fan base; praise was enough!
"Indeed, the Thunder deserve praise. Not just the starters, but reserves Thabo Sefolosha, Ibaka, and Nick Collison all completed their tasks very well. Coach Brooks successfully united everyone."
"Perhaps the competition for Western Conference Playoffs spots this season will be exceptionally fierce. I think fans will definitely love to see such a situation!"
Van Gundy also stopped making sharp comments, simply saying some pleasantries to avoid being attacked by Cavaliers fans again.
"Yes, this will definitely be an exciting season!"
For James Fans across the ocean, this game was a carnival feast. 50+11+5, these stats were invincible! Therefore, the Hupu Forum briefly turned into 'James Hupu' after the game.
"The Cavaliers lost, but James didn't! My James is awesome!"
"James did his best, his teammates were CBA-level, and O'Neal was also no good, playing too poorly, less effective than Anderson Varejão!"
"So awesome! This drive, this shooting, simply unstoppable. He single-handedly destroyed the Thunder!"
"That's enough. Just looking at the post-game news, you'd think the Thunder lost. James was just playing 'eye-defense' in the fourth quarter. Kayce's isolation drive and dunk was so cool!"
"Thunder's Big Three are awesome! Kayce is awesome! Destroyed James. Hope he gets a chance to go to the Lakers in the future and inherit Kobe's mantle."
"Kobe fans, get out! You're everywhere. The Thunder are doing great, why go to the Lakers to be a little brother? I'm optimistic Kayce will destroy Kobe in the future!"
"Heh heh, going to the Lakers means championships! Kobe will teach you how to win!"
"Kobe fans, hurry up and get out, this is Thunder post-game news!"
Kayce naturally didn't know that across the ocean in China, Kobe fans were once again battling on all fronts. Driving home, he was aching all over and just wanted to lie down on his soft bed and get a good night's sleep.
"Guarding James is indeed not for everyone; his body is like a cheat code. Hope Durant's condition won't be affected tomorrow."
Back home, after a quick bath, Kayce casually posted a tweet:
"Wonderful home atmosphere, brilliant team victory, thank you to all Oklahoma City fans, we will keep moving forward! #ThunderFamily #RookieOfTheYear #DuttonsKid (crown.jpg)"
Without looking at the comments, after tidying up, Kayce immediately went to bed. Tomorrow he had to fly to Denver for an away game, and the Nuggets were a tough opponent.
"It's time to check out the gains from this game. After fighting hard for four quarters, there must be new badges."
With that thought, Kayce slowly drifted off to sleep.
In the Dream Training Space, Kayce called up the control panel and, seeing the three notifications in the Achievement Room, eagerly entered directly.
What appeared before him were two silver badges and one bronze badge. Kayce lightly touched them to view their attributes:
Achievement Badge [Defense Core]: 5 / 500
On the court, it will enhance teammates' defensive abilities.
Achievement Badge [High Difficulty Shot King]: 2 / 500
Increases the hit rate of difficult shots after dribbling, improves shooting stability.
Kayce pondered after seeing the attributes of these two achievement badges.
"The silver [Defense Core] badge is also a single attribute, and the other upgraded badge improves shooting stability. It seems the effects of silver badges are generally like these."
Then, turning his gaze to the newly generated bronze badge, Kayce couldn't help but rub his hands, muttering, "Give me something practical!"
Achievement Badge [Tough Shooter]: 8 / 50
Unaffected by side defenders.
Seeing this simple and direct attribute, Kayce burst into laughter, shouting: "Awesome!"
"I didn't expect LeBron James to be a walking experience package too. This game was a huge win!"
On the morning of December 14th, on the plane to Denver, the Thunder players chose not to play Texas Hold'em but instead chatted about gossip.
"Scarlett is reportedly getting a divorce. I knew it. Look at the reports here, they've been separated for almost a year!"
Ever since Scarlett's divorce gossip came out, Durant was exceptionally happy, eagerly expressing his willingness to take the plunge.
"Don't take it too seriously, Kevin. Married in '08, and now they're saying separated for a year. That news is too fake, and Hollywood women are very scheming!"
Kayce had been in Los Angeles for several years and was already tired of hearing gossip like engagements breaking off, separations after marriage, and property division after divorce.
"Hollywood stars are too far from us. I still prefer girls around me. Thanks to Kayce for introducing me to Nina. Kevin, Nina has a few good girlfriends; I can introduce you!"
Good guy Westbrook could go out and have fun, but when it came to living together, he wouldn't choose a big star.
"Russell, we're still very young! Don't let a woman tie down your life. Of course, I also don't recommend Kevin pursuing a Hollywood star. Some small actresses, small models are very suitable for us."
Jeff Green only pursued what was tangible and accessible.
"Haven't any of you ever liked a beautiful movie star in your youth? The most important thing is the feeling, guys. They'll divorce soon, and I still have a chance!"
Durant declared that he was determined to take the plunge, if for no other reason than to fulfill his childhood dream.
"It's a pity I can't get into Hollywood circles yet, otherwise I could help you inquire about her situation. Look forward to my single selling big, Bro. When I really become famous, maybe I can open the door to Hollywood!"
Kayce looked at the gossip magazine in his hand and drew another big picture for everyone.
"Wow, another single coming out? Your 'We Don't Talk Anymore' sold really well. Taylor has been helping you promote your songs; you should thank her more!"
At the mention of this, Westbrook, Taylor's number one fan, immediately expressed his displeasure.
"Don't worry, I definitely won't let your idol work for free. When we play away in New York, I'll take you to dinner, and Taylor can meet her biggest fan."
Kayce was very clear about his good brother's preferences.
"Cool! I can't wait. Hurry up and release the new song so I can listen to it. Nina is your number one fan."
Russell was already eager to meet his idol and planned to take many photos together.
"'Shape of You'. I hope everyone will buy the digital single when it comes out. I'm personally very satisfied with this song."
Kayce started his promotion, pushing his new single.
When the cheerful melody began, the Thunder players all exclaimed how good it was, showering it with praise. Only Russell honestly said:
"Your lyrics are too explicit. I knew it! You only write dirty songs!"
Kayce shrugged with a smile. The lyrics were revised later, and if anything, they became even more suggestive. His agent, Chapman, said that all girls love that kind of stuff!
Before this game, the Denver Nuggets had a record of 17 wins and 7 losses, placing them fifth in the Western Conference. After four consecutive away games, the Nuggets were now returning home for three games.
In their last game, they defeated the Phoenix Suns at home with a score of 105 to 99. Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups have been in hot form recently, and they were determined to win their home games.
After arriving in Denver, the Thunder only had a simple recovery training session in the afternoon. With a back-to-back game, Coach Brooks was a bit worried about the players' physical condition.
After all, the Thunder's rotation was quite short, and the starters in the previous game all played around 40 minutes.
"Kayce, is your stamina okay? Why do you seem to be in even better shape?"
Durant and Kayce played a few rounds of 1-on-1, and then he started to feel intensely jealous:
Is there any justice? He's in even better shape for a back-to-back game, and his stamina isn't affected. You're still a rookie!
"I slept for a bit, and I've pretty much recovered. I've said it before, I've completely adapted to the NBA's game rhythm!"
Kayce answered Durant's question casually while showing off his fancy dribbling.
"..."
Durant was speechless, once again questioning his life: Why did he still feel some muscle soreness after sleeping? Had he still not adapted to the NBA's game rhythm after two seasons?
"Me too, my stamina is fine, but I don't like playing immediately after getting off a plane!"
Russell suddenly interjected, indicating that his stamina was also very strong.
"..." Do you want to be the boss too?
Durant then looked at Jeff Green, who was standing nearby. The latter was startled, then immediately spread his hands and said:
"My muscles are still very sore, Kevin. We can't compare ourselves to monsters. They lift weights every day! Their bodies are already used to those confrontations."
Durant's mouth twitched as he listened, complaining wildly in his mind:
"Are you suggesting I can't compare to those two? I must intensify my training. I'm the team's boss!"
The Pepsi Center was buzzing with excitement tonight. After defeating the Phoenix Suns, who were ranked 4th in the West, Denver fans were all hoping for a winning streak.
In China, across the ocean, it was Saturday morning. Therefore, CCTV also broadcast this Thunder game.
Yang Jian and guest Xu Jicheng were discussing the team lineups before the game, warming up for the match.
"After playing against the Cavaliers yesterday, the Thunder immediately flew to Denver without stopping. Xu, do you think back-to-back games will affect the Thunder's performance?"
Yang Jian routinely asked, bringing up a topic of concern to fans.
"I think it will have an impact. I watched yesterday's game, and the winner wasn't decided until the latter half of the fourth quarter. Plus, coming to Denver means playing at high altitude, so the Thunder's game condition will definitely be affected."
Xu Jicheng gave fans a heads-up in advance, stating that it was a back-to-back game, so a loss would be normal.
"Then what do you think the Thunder should pay attention to if they want to win this game? The competition in the West is very fierce right now, with the Lakers, ranked 2nd, hot on their heels, only one win behind."
Yang Jian then asked another question that everyone was concerned about.
"The Thunder need to focus on defending Chauncey Billups. Unlike the Cavaliers, Anthony is more of a finisher, while the true organizer is Billups. To win, both of these defensive aspects must be done well."
Xu Jicheng had done a lot of homework before the game, and his analysis, combined with previous games, was well-reasoned.
"Indeed, as Xu said, but I'd also like to add that the Nuggets' interior defense and mobility are also excellent. To win, all three of the Thunder's young stars must perform."
"We have already received the starting lineups for both teams. For the Nuggets, the backcourt is Chauncey Billups and Arron Afflalo, the frontcourt is Carmelo Anthony and Kenyon Martin, and the center is Nene Hilario."
"The Thunder still have Russell Westbrook and Kayce in the backcourt, Kevin Durant and Jeff Green in the frontcourt, and Kostić at center. Both starting lineups are standard rotations."
"The game is about to begin, let's cut back to the live broadcast of the game!"
The Nuggets' mascot, Rocky the Mountain Lion, came to interact briefly with the Thunder players before the game, drawing laughter from the fans. With the DJ's upbeat music, the atmosphere in the arena grew even more electric.
When Carmelo Anthony made his entrance, the Pepsi Center immediately erupted in a huge cheer, as fans wildly shouted for their All-Star player.
"Anthony is so popular. It looks like my hope for an All-Star starter spot this year is completely gone."
Just one entrance ceremony, and Durant felt his dream of being an All-Star starter immediately shattered.
"The competition for frontcourt spots in the West is indeed fierce. Don't worry, Bro, I'll help you campaign for votes too."
Kayce felt that Durant's chances of starting were slim, but a reserve spot should be no problem. As long as the Thunder maintained a good record, Durant, as the team's leading scorer, deserved to be an All-Star.
Durant was touched by Kayce's comfort: "It would be even better if he didn't compete with me for the boss position!"
After both teams completed their final warm-ups, Coach Brooks gave a few simple instructions:
"Russell, be careful when driving to the basket. Nene's mobility is excellent, so you must pay attention to the help defense's position. Kostić, watch out for their pick-and-roll dives and protect the rebounds."
Both teams' players came to the center of the court, and the referee signaled Kostić and Nene to jump for the ball at mid-court.
"The game begins! Nene jumped for the ball for the Nuggets. His physical talent is truly great; his quickness is amazing."
Yang Jian watched Nene jump for the ball, quickly rising, and couldn't help but marvel at his talent.
On the Nuggets' first possession, Billups dribbled past half-court and immediately passed the ball to Anthony, who came off an off-ball screen. Anthony received the ball near the elbow, faced Durant's defense, and after a triple threat, put the ball down with his left hand.
After two large dribbles, he gave Durant a body bump and then stepped back for a mid-range fadeaway.
"Swish!" The two-pointer went in cleanly.
Anthony's playing style differed from James's; he mostly took the shot as soon as he got the ball.
When he learned that his good brother James had scored 50 points in the previous game, an idea popped into his head:
"I can do that too; 50 points isn't difficult!"
Therefore, on the first possession, Anthony played very decisively. Tonight, he had already 'removed' his pass button.
"Shit!" Unable to defend Anthony, Durant cursed softly.
On the Thunder's offense, Russell quickly dribbled past half-court, and Kayce immediately came over to receive the ball. Noticing that Durant's off-ball screen tactic was unsuccessful, as Anthony had pushed him beyond the three-point line, he had to signal Kostić to come up for a pick-and-roll.
He drove to the left, using his body to shield off the defending Arron Afflalo, while observing his teammates' positions. Seeing that Nene's defense was not out of position, he immediately faked a left-hand pull-back.
Then he quickly pulled back, gathered the ball, and shot a fadeaway.
"Swish!" The two-pointer went straight through the net.
"What a great shot! Kayce's movement is very fluid, making full use of his physical advantages. This technical move is much better than our domestic players'!"
Xu Jicheng sighed with emotion, watching Kayce execute such a technical move even in the NBA.
Kayce, on his way back to defense, was very satisfied with the combined effect of his badges. The bonus from [High Difficulty Shot King] + [Tough Shooter] was simple and practical. It was a good warm-up and worked really well.
The Thunder's perimeter defensive strategy was to switch on screens. So this possession, Kayce switched to defend Anthony. When Anthony received the ball with his back to the basket in the low post, Kayce immediately felt a sense of dread.
Facing Kayce's defense, Anthony held the ball in his right hand, backed him down, then turned and shot a fadeaway.
"Swish!" The mid-range shot went in again.
Kayce was a bit helpless. Their weight and strength were not on the same level, so his defensive badges were useless. He could only secretly complain in his mind:
"I wish the small-ball era would come quickly. I really want to shoot threes from outside."