NBA: Miracle Workers

On Thursday, June 18, 2015, TNT successfully invited Kobe Bryant to its final episode of the season.

The main reason for inviting Mamba was that O'Neal was going to officially reconcile with his younger brother. After seeing Kobe's Achilles tendon rupture, the old shark finally put aside his prejudices.

After the Finals this year, the reconciliation between the two has become the biggest hot topic recently. Apart from those who don't support it, most onlookers want to see Kobe leave with dignity.

After the afternoon program started, in the studio, seeing O'Neal dressed in a black suit, the three of them joked around with smiles, with Charles Barkley grinning and laughing:
"Shaq, you're finally willing to publicly admit that you've been maliciously attacking Kobe all along!"

"You always make excuses. We know you're just worried about Kobe surpassing your achievements."

"."

Barkley's outspokenness drew a burst of laughter from the studio. Seeing the veteran Shaq remain silent, Kenny Smith chimed in, saying:
"Honestly, Shaq, I enjoy the rivalry between you two. In any case, this face-to-face meeting will clear up any misunderstandings between you."

"After watching this year's Finals, I believe more people are beginning to recognize Kobe's strength. As a championship guard, I'm happy to see that he has finally earned everyone's respect."

Ernie Johnson nodded in agreement, smiled at the camera, and said:

"Just like many commentators called for after the Finals, we should give Kobe a fair evaluation!"

"TNT has entrusted this job to Shaq, who is the person who knows Kobe best. In this episode, fans in front of their TVs will witness this great reconciliation together."

Sitting on the far left, Shaquille O'Neal, wearing glasses, shook his head helplessly after hearing what his three teammates said. Finally, the old Shaq spoke up, saying seriously:

"There is no conflict between me and my little brother. You know, we took the Larry O'Brien Trophy from the GOAT together. It was a wonderful experience."

"You may have seen my criticisms of Kobe in previous episodes, but that was just me setting higher expectations for him."

"If Kobe were a player like Stephen Curry, I wouldn't say anything bad about him. I know my little brother has the potential to achieve even greater things, and those criticisms are just a form of encouragement to me!"

Shaquille O'Neal's blatant lies nearly made everyone in the studio laugh. The old shark's skin is ridiculously thick; any other professional basketball commentator would never be so frank.

O'Neal didn't react to the laughter at all; the old Shaq even showed a genuine smile and continued:

"You might think I'm joking, but the truth is that Kobe was the best option to defend Lee on that Lakers team back then."

"Although he didn't accomplish anything and Lee still got 40+ in the end, Kobe at least made an effort, and he gave it his all."

"Compared to Stephen Curry in this year's Finals, you should know how good Kobe is. The new MVP can't even match up against 37-year-old Lee. In my opinion, that's the real joke."

"This is the first time I've seen this in my career. Maybe the league should consider giving my little brother a trophy."

Everything is subject to comparison. After watching this year's Finals, almost all basketball commentators changed their evaluation of Kobe. Compared to Curry, the Mamba seems more like a true superstar.

Throughout his career, Kobe consistently matched up against Li You. While the matchup wasn't as effective as with Dwyane Wade, it was far superior to Stephen Curry's defensive evasion.

Kobe was never a weak link on defense, and even towards the end of his career, no one relentlessly attacked the Mamba.

In the recently concluded NBA Finals, Curry completely redefined commentators' understanding of what a core player has been all over the years. Even at the press conference after Game 4, a Yahoo Sports reporter embarrassed the MVP on the spot.

"As a point guard, why didn't you go and guard Lee? Why did you never successfully defend Lee throughout the series?"

The Warriors were swept, scoring a respectable 106 points in one of their three games, but failed to reach 100 points in the other three.

As the team's leader, Curry underperformed in almost every one of the four games. If we disregard his moments of fighting hard during garbage time, the new MVP performed more like an unknown minor character.

When Shaquille O'Neal compared Curry and Kobe again, Charles Barkley stopped arguing. His teammate's statement was correct; in terms of pure skill, Kobe was indeed stronger.

The four of them discussed the crushing finals again. The content of the game was simply impossible to analyze further. With Li You's average of 41.5 points per game, any excuse seemed pale and powerless.

Even at 37 years old, James Harden still managed to consistently score 40+10 in the Finals despite facing a barrage of attacks from his opponents. The Warriors' 67-win season became a complete joke, confirming the fact that they could only reach the Finals because of the referee's calls.

When Kobe, who had recently been discharged from the hospital, appeared on camera during the live broadcast, all four people in the studio greeted him, and Mamba also showed a bright smile.

"I'm recovering well, but the doctor told me it will take at least a year before I can return to the court."

“My daughters were very happy when they heard the time. You know, it means I can be with them all the time. It feels pretty good. I guess I’m starting to adjust to this new life.”

Kobe openly stated his recovery timeline, contrary to speculation that he was in a rush to return. Upon hearing this, Ernie Johnson continued by asking questions that fans were concerned about:
"Kobe, we all know that next season will be Lee's last year. As a competitor of the same era, do you have a definite plan for your future?"

Kobe hadn't given a definite answer before, but after watching this year's Finals, the Mamba, with mixed feelings, had given up all hope and responded seriously:

"I'm certain my career is over, and I will never return to the court."

"The Last Dance was in the Western Conference Finals, that's enough. I brought the championship experience back to Los Angeles, and now it's LeBron's time to shine."

"I want to spend time with my family, do my basketball show well, and when the kids grow up, I will go to China. I want to share my championship experience with the other side of the world. Those loyal fans should not be let down."

When Kobe talked about fans across the ocean, he couldn't help but look wistful. He would never forget the fans who supported him during the low points of his career.

After the news of Kobe's departure was officially confirmed, Charles Barkley did not make any more jokes or try to persuade Kobe to come back from his injury and play for another year.

Even if Li You has retired by then, a veteran with a ruptured Achilles tendon is destined to be unable to dominate those young players. Rather than lingering on the court, leaving early would be a more dignified way to end his career.

"Shaq, do you support Kobe's decision?"

Kenny Smith turned to look at Shaquille O'Neal, who raised an eyebrow but didn't respond immediately. Instead, after a moment's thought, he said to Kobe:
"Bro, do you remember what you said to me when we first met?"

"You said you'd be the scoring machine next to me!"

"To become one of the greatest players of all time?"

Kobe smiled and asked the question in front of the camera, then laughed and joked after seeing Shaq nod:

"But these words do sound like something I would say."

Shaquille O'Neal also smiled, perhaps because his younger brother had completely lost his threat, and the usually petty old Shaq was completely relieved and said with a smile:

"You even said you'd become the NBA's Will Smith!"

The two laughed heartily as they reminisced about the past. O'Neal's usual sarcastic demeanor completely vanished, and the old shark continued with a sigh:

"When you entered the league, many media outlets were comparing you to Michael Jordan, but after just one season, everything changed."

"Li's appearance changed everything, including our relationship."

"Maybe I should have been more forgiving back then; I shouldn't have questioned our perimeter defense."

"Maybe I should train harder and improve my free throws sooner, so that we might have a chance to win another championship."

"We were all right, it's just that Li was too strong. The GOAT really changed basketball. By the time we realized that, we had missed too much, and I want to apologize for that."

Seemingly surprised that his partner, who always liked to tease him, would actually apologize, Kobe involuntarily showed a look of astonishment on camera, then shook his head and simply replied:

"There's no need to feel sorry; at least we won an O'Brien Trophy together."

"This achievement surpasses most star players in the league. We have proven our strength and earned respect."

"I firmly believe that we experienced the best era in NBA history, and Lee's presence took our generation of players to another level."

"."

Gone was the usual sarcastic tone. After a heart-to-heart talk, the two reconciled completely and said goodbye to the past. Charles Barkley felt a pang of sadness when he saw Kobe openly admit that he could not surpass the GOAT.

Competitive sports can be very cruel. You may give 200% effort until the end of your career and still not be able to defeat your opponent. This has nothing to do with mental qualities; it's a difference in ability.

-

On Monday, June 22, after a weekend of developments, the reconciliation between O'Neal and Kobe Bryant drew blessings from numerous sports commentators, and their championship was once again mentioned by many sports media outlets.

Respect came a little late. If Kobe hadn't ruptured his Achilles tendon, things might have been completely different, since most people prefer the "underdog."

That same afternoon, Manu Ginobili announced his decision via Twitter:

"It's time to say goodbye. I'm happy to end my career in San Antonio."

A year after Duncan's retirement, the soon-to-be 38-year-old Argentine also chose to leave, marking the beginning of a new era for the Spurs. Kawhi Leonard, who won the Defensive Player of the Year award this season, will become the new core.

Compared to Kobe's dignified farewell, Ginobili's retirement did not generate much discussion among basketball commentators. After all, the Spurs were no longer a championship contender, and most commentators were more focused on the Lakers' future.

With the offseason approaching, Nash, who suffered a back injury, has not officially announced his retirement, but sources have confirmed that the Lakers will not offer him a new contract.

Like Amar'e Stoudemire, a championship-winning forward, Steve Nash, a star guard who has repeatedly made it into the 180 Club, will also fade out of the league.

In the afternoon, the Denver Nuggets officially hired Mike Malone, the championship-winning assistant coach who was fired by the Sacramento Kings. Denver fans have high expectations for the new head coach.

At the press conference, Mike Malone didn't talk much about his time with the Kings, but instead talked about Mike D'Antoni:

"Mike is retiring. We talked for a while after the Knicks won the championship, and I regret his departure."

"In my opinion, he is one of the greatest coaches in NBA history. His coaching philosophy has influenced the development of modern basketball, and the effort he put in behind the scenes is unimaginable to many people."

"I will bring my championship experience to Denver, and I wish Mike all the best. He should enjoy life."

After the Finals, D'Antoni announced his retirement plans with a smile at the press conference. The New York media tried their best to persuade him to stay, but the mustache himself showed no reluctance.

The coaches' union has recently been promoting D'Antoni's Last Dance. While fans are focusing their attention on Li You, many industry insiders are eager to hear about the mustache's success story.

D'Antoni was caught off guard and, under intense pressure, reluctantly agreed to publish another book after his retirement.
The book, whose title hasn't even been decided yet, has already been hyped up to the skies. Not only are fans looking forward to it, but even industry insiders want to see D'Antoni share his championship experience.

When asked about the book, Mike Malone almost lost his composure. Just a few days ago, he had talked about it with D'Antoni. The old man didn't know what to write, so he could only ask the lead assistant coach for ideas.

When asked about his championship experience by a Denver reporter, Mike Malone tried to maintain his composure as a renowned coach, giving a somewhat vague response when discussing his plans:

"My first task upon arriving in Denver is to establish a data analytics team to provide targeted guidance to the players using advanced data."

"This is very important. Most of the time, data can objectively reflect a player's competitive level, which is one of the secrets to the Knicks' continued competitiveness."

"As for the championship, it takes time. The players need to grow, and the whole team needs to unite like a family."

"The offseason work has started quickly, and I like everyone's dedication."

Without revealing what tactical system he would use in the new season, nor mentioning which player he favored, Mike Malone chose to "trust the process."

After Dion Waiters' failure, the championship assistant coach no longer hoped to replicate the Knicks' experience and no longer had any expectations for a core point guard system.

At the end of the press conference, most Denver reporters were satisfied; Mike Malone seemed to have some solid insights, and the Nuggets should stick to modern basketball in the future!

-

On Wednesday, July 9, 2015, the free market came alive after the freeze ended.

That morning, the Spurs officially signed LaMarcus Aldridge.

Although Trail Blazers fans were aware that their big man had been flirting with San Antonio, some still complained on social media after the trade took place:

"Going to San Antonio is the worst choice; Damian Lillard is the future of the Trail Blazers!"

The Knicks, who have been under intense scrutiny, also announced this morning that they have re-signed Jimmy Butler. Although it's not a maximum contract, the young man is still very happy to be able to stay in New York.

He posted a photo on Instagram of himself signing the contract at the Tarryton training center, along with pictures of himself with numerous Larry O'Brien Trophy holders, captioning it a moment that delighted many New York fans:
"This is the legacy of championship experience! Seeing these trophies makes me want to go back to the GOAT and train right away!"

"I've been honing my basketball skills relentlessly, and 4 a.m. in Manhattan witnessed my efforts! #GOATRecognition #NewYorkGang #Upcoming19Championships"

The comments section was unusually quiet, with no sarcastic remarks, only New York fans going wild with their own excitement. This situation is related to the recent activity on the 76ers' Reddit subreddit.

Just after Li You led the Knicks to another easy championship, Philadelphia fans, who had been quiet for the past few years, became active again, and the countdown posts became incredibly popular.

While a group of 76ers fans were discussing whether Li You's retirement would immediately end his embarrassing losing streak, a concerned fan suddenly posted a hypothetical question:
"What if Lee suddenly announces that he wants to play for a few more years?"

The comments section erupted with Philadelphia fans, some even hurling insults at the poster, until a die-hard 76ers fan stepped in to offer a reminder:

"Perhaps this is Lee testing us. We should remain calm and continue to praise him until he officially retires!"

As a result, thanks to the appeals of Philadelphia fans, social media became unusually harmonious. No one made sarcastic remarks or argued with Knicks members anymore, and the comments section was filled with praise.
Not only Philadelphia fans are hoping for Li You's retirement, but neighboring Boston fans have even prepared gifts and tribute videos!

According to an unnamed staff member, the Celtics management prepared a "championship-themed old floor" for Li You, and legends will attend his final regular season game. The Celtics, preparing for the Summer League, even held a rehearsal in advance, just in time for Li You's formal farewell to Boston.
Most fans didn't laugh at the two teams' questionable actions; instead, they started urging their home team to follow suit. Regardless of whether Lee Woo changes his mind, GOAT must leave with dignity next season!

At 10 a.m., First Take aired on time. Skip Bayliss was in high spirits, and host Kari was also in great shape, except for Stephen A. Smith, who looked listless.

When discussing the Warriors' recent contract extension with Draymond Green, Skip Bayliss once again spoke up for the young players:
“I like this signing. Obviously, the Warriors were not influenced by the media. Draymond Green is one of the core players on both ends of the court, and they made the right choice.”

"The Finals loss is not the fault of these young players. As Coach Steve Kerr said, 'Losing to the greatest of all time can help young players grow better.'"

After the loss, trade rumors about the Warriors increased, the "death lineup" truly led the team to its end, and the questioning of the existing system just wouldn't stop.

In response, Warriors advisor Jerry West voiced his support for general manager Bob Myers and head coach Steve Kerr, jokingly responding to questions from sports reporters:
"If we can make it to the Finals again, the Larry O'Brien Trophy will come to San Francisco in a year at most."

The director also aired Jerry West's opinion at the opportune moment. Stephen A. Smith, who usually enjoys criticizing his opponents, didn't offer his usual commentary; instead, he sighed with some melancholy:
"I don't care who the Knicks signed, and I'm not interested in knowing which team is making a run for the championship again."

"I can't control my feelings of loss when I think about the NBA without Lee."

"Ladies and gentlemen, we are about to witness the farewell of one of the greatest players in NBA history, which means that we will no longer be able to enjoy Lee's performances live in the future."

"Such a life is simply unimaginable. The NBA losing Lee is like the solar system losing its sun."

As he spoke, Stephen A. Smith became emotional again, his eyes reddened, and he covered his forehead, bursting into tears. He choked back sobs as he said:
"With 19 seasons and 42950 points, Li will continue to write his legend as he prepares for his 20th season, but miracles always come to an end."

Although this wasn't the first time Stephen A. Smith had shed tears, Skip Bayliss was still completely overwhelmed upon seeing this scene.

For industry insiders, Li You's retirement is definitely a good thing, because it means new champions, new superstars, and new topics!

It's hard to be called a "superstar" without winning a championship, and the embarrassing thing in recent years is that the Knicks have won too many games, so fans aren't interested in paying attention to other teams, and star players don't get much exposure.

Thinking about how he'd been attacked by fans of his wins for so many years, Skip Bayliss gloated and chimed in:

"Time will eventually heal all wounds. Lee has left the Knicks with excellent young players, and perhaps New York has a chance to complete its second eight-peat."

The female host, Carrie, almost burst out laughing. Everyone knew this was impossible. Compared to winning the championship, New York was more likely to be "reclaimed." Madison Square Garden was about to change!
As if he could already see numerous ridiculed teams turning the tables and "beating up" New York in the basketball mecca, Stephen A. Smith became even more heartbroken, finally covering his face and saying:
"I really hope Lee can stay; New York needs him."

Skip Bayliss, unable to contain himself any longer, finally burst out laughing. Under his partner's glare, he shouted into the camera:

Let's take a look at what gifts the Celtics prepared for Lee!

"God! I believe this will be the most magnificent final dance I have ever witnessed."

-

On Thursday, July 10th, the Rockets' moves in the free agency market sparked heated discussions among fans across the ocean.

Tencent Sports was abuzz after the trade, in which the Indiana Pacers acquired Roy Hibbert, nicknamed "Black Yao Ming," in exchange for a second-round draft pick in 2019, was confirmed.

Yesterday everyone was discussing the Rockets giving up Jeremy Lin, but now that they've signed Roy Hibbert, people are starting to imagine a Westbrook-Hibbert combination.

Wang Meng and the others who followed Yao Ming back to China expressed their opinions on Weibo, with everyone generally optimistic about the signing. Only Yang Yi made a sarcastic remark:

"When Yao Ming was on the team, Westbrook would relentlessly attack the basket, and Hibbert's arrival couldn't change this core player."

"After watching this year's Finals, the traditional center is fading from the scene. Even a player of Pau Gasol's caliber would become a defensive liability against Curry."

Although he didn't directly say the Rockets were no good, the netizens on Weibo were still quite unhappy and immediately spoke up for Westbrook in the comments section!
After Kobe Bryant chose to retire, Russell Westbrook, a disciple of the Mamba, has become a favorite among many die-hard fans. With the combined support of both sides, the young man's popularity in China has skyrocketed.

Compared to the attention from across the ocean, American sports media are more concerned about LeBron James's choice.

After joining the Lakers, James was unhappy with Kobe's return and signed a 1+1 contract. After the Cavaliers gave up Deron Williams, James had the opportunity to return to his hometown.

In response, Gilbert even removed the letter from the team's official website and sent management to Los Angeles to lobby James.

With the hype from Cleveland sports media, local fans had high expectations. Unfortunately, the Lakers quietly announced the contract extension news that morning.
"We are very proud to announce that LeBron James will belong to Los Angeles for the next four years!"

"."

After the update was posted on Twitter, the comment section erupted in chaos. James still did not choose to go home, but continued to leave his talents in Los Angeles.

That afternoon, a large number of sports reporters gathered at the Toyota Center training facility. Accompanied by Kupchak and Jim Buss, James signed a new contract with a smile on his face.

Although it wasn't a formal press conference, the reporters who documented the scene seized the opportunity to ask questions:

"LeBron, there are rumors that you rejected offers from the Cavaliers and Knicks? Many fans are very curious about your choice."

Having shaken off the shadow of their Western Conference Finals defeat and signed a lucrative contract, LeBron James regained his usual confident demeanor. He chuckled before calmly responding to the reporter's question:
“I’m almost 31 years old, and at this point, I think I’ve reached the peak of my career.”

“You know better than I how many times I’ve lost to the Knicks. I’m going to slowly win them back. We all know what Lee’s departure means.”

"As for Cleveland, it will always be my home. I am an Akron boy, and I want to bring my championship experience back there."

"After signing the new contract, I am currently focused solely on the Lakers. I have the ability to win a championship for the team, and time will ultimately provide the answer."

There was some laughter in the room. James managed to retain some of his star status, considering that he has a record of 0 wins and 52 losses in the regular season alone since 03.
While it's not as embarrassing as the 76ers' record, if James were to join, he would become a well-known softie in the league.

Kupchak then launched into a scathing critique of Kobe's injury, and Jim Buss, displaying his composure, unusually offered a direct comment on the matter:
"The Lakers will always be Kobe's home, and we welcome him back anytime. We thank him for the championship experience he brought to the Lakers!"

"."

James smiled and nodded. Although losing Kobe meant a loss of some strength, no one would be able to steal his thunder in the future.

With his imminent rise to the top of the hook-handling scene, LeBron James believes he'll soon win a championship. Thinking about the Warriors' roster, the "Chosen One" remains in high spirits.
"The referee won't always be on your side!"

-

On October 14, 2015, the NBA China Games were held as scheduled, and the Hornets' visit this year completely ignited the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai.

After being signed by the Hornets, Jeremy Lin was still very popular when he came to China with the team.

At 4:30 p.m., three and a half hours before the game started, the team tunnel entrance was already packed with fans, many of whom were wearing Jeremy Lin's jersey from his time with the Rockets.

Some fans wore Paul and Griffin's jerseys, while many more wore Bulls and Jordan's jerseys and shoes.

Starting at 5:30 p.m., players began entering the arena to warm up, and the number of onlookers grew. Unfortunately, Michael Jordan, whom everyone was eagerly awaiting, still did not appear.

At 7:58 p.m., just before the game was about to officially begin, Michael, wearing a black T-shirt and a black hat, entered the stadium under the protection of security and sat in the first row near the center line.

"Michael!"

The entire arena erupted instantly. No one paid attention to the upcoming jump ball anymore. Most fans were shouting loudly. At this moment, Michael Jordan replaced the players on the court and became the only focus of attention.

After the first quarter ended, several NBA legends came to the center of the court to meet with the fans, but the spectators didn't react much, only giving a token cheer.

When Michael Jordan returned to the arena with Patrick Ewing during halftime, and together with Yao Ming and others greeted the fans, the entire arena erupted once again.

Ewing has aged considerably in recent years, becoming quite overweight and having some difficulty walking. However, seeing many fans at the stadium wearing Knicks jerseys with the number 1 on them and chanting his name, the gorilla still smiled happily.

Influenced by Li You, most of the older fans across the ocean are die-hard Knicks fans and also have a biased view of Ewing as a championship center.

As New York fans gradually forgot about him, Ewing felt particularly happy to have regained their support. He finally understood why Kobe was so attached to this place.

However, seeing so many fans jostling over chairs in an attempt to get a close look at Michael Jordan, Ewing raised an eyebrow helplessly and jokingly looked at Yao Ming beside him:
"This guy must be really enjoying this moment. In America, everyone only likes Lee! We washed-up stars don't get this kind of treatment."

Yao Ming, who had just ended his professional career, was visibly heavier. Hearing Ewing's teasing, he immediately laughed, pulled his beloved daughter to the sidelines, and casually replied:

“We have a lot of ‘sentiment’ here; Michael Jordan was many people’s introduction to the NBA.”

"."

In Charlotte, due to years of losing streaks, Michael Jordan, who was closely tied to the team, almost went from being the secondary GOAT to "washed-up old man".

Having enjoyed superstar treatment once again during his trip to China with the team, Michael Jordan was in high spirits. During the second half of the game, he didn't forget to actively interact with Yao Ming and others. Anyone could see that the vice GOAT was exceptionally focused tonight.

At the end of the game, the score was 113-77. Most fans didn't care about the result, and some were still shouting "Michael".

Perhaps moved by the enthusiastic fans, Michael Jordan gave a rare post-game interview. After answering a few routine questions, a reporter from Tencent Sports asked curiously:

"How did it feel when your record was broken? Many fans want to hear your thoughts."

Not only was Michael Jordan's scoring record surpassed by Li You, but Kobe Bryant also officially surpassed his idol last season. However, this did not generate much discussion in the United States, since the secondary GOAT is already outdated.

"Records are meant to be broken. In fact, I always send my best wishes when Lee breaks my records. He will be retiring next season, which will be a historic moment for the NBA."

"Kobe is more like my little brother. When he breaks records, I'm more of a comforter. You know, he's very competitive."

"I hope to see more young players break my records in the future; the NBA needs fresh blood."

Michael Jordan, in his simple answer to the question, didn't forget to promote Li You's final season.

Not only do some fans hope that the GOAT will retire, but the board members are even more eager to give Lee Woo the award and end the "championship game".

As Michael Jordan finished his interview and headed towards the players' tunnel, he heard the enthusiastic cheers of the fans and waved again. Thinking of Kobe Bryant's enduring fondness for China, the vice GOAT couldn't help but sigh inwardly:
"This place truly has the purest fans."

-

On Thursday, October 22, the Miami Heat finished their preseason games. In a few days, they will travel to New York to play in the defending champions' opening game.

Dwyane Wade wasn't happy with the league's arrangements, perhaps because Curry's performance in the Finals was so poor that fans were eager to see the "Best Defender of Lee" perform.
At 33, Wade can no longer play with the same ferocity on the training court as he used to. Knee injuries and the backlash from technology are starting to take their toll on his body, and the Flash has lost the speed he had in his youth.

Pat Riley has never relaxed his demands on the team, and new recruit Hassan Whiteside had to adjust his physical condition and train hard throughout the offseason before being accepted by the team.

As the team leader, Wade doesn't talk much during training, but with the regular season about to begin, everyone is influenced by the media and starts gossiping.

"Wade, what gift have we prepared for Lee?"

Whiteside, sitting on the sidelines, asked Wade in a low voice. The latter frowned as soon as he heard the question, feeling that his entire career had been suppressed. In the end, he had to say "thank you".
"You should pay more attention to your pick-and-roll positioning! That's management's responsibility, don't discuss it in training sessions."

Locker room leader Haslem, with a dark expression, came over and interrupted their casual conversation. Not everyone was as forgiving as Kobe, who had ruptured his Achilles tendon. As old rivals, they found it difficult to sincerely express their gratitude.

Unlike Wade, Bosh wasn't frustrated. After signing a big contract and suffering an injury, without the mockery of the New York Madman, the "washed-up king" even felt that these days weren't so bad.
“Wade, don’t overthink it. This is Lee’s last season. We still have a chance to compete for the championship.”

"Look at the Eastern Conference now, Bro, we can make a big splash!"

Haslem, energized by the enthusiasm, joined in the encouragement, while Wade, still unable to muster the energy, subconsciously rubbed his knee and muttered:
“I might not make it to that point. I don’t want to lie to myself. By 35, I will have completely lost my speed, and it will all be over.”

"Without a championship, without an MVP, I don't even know if I'll be able to enter the Hall of Fame."

"Think about what happened to Tim Hardaway, maybe that's my future."

The retirement of some players has obviously affected Wade. When he heard his partner confide in him, the two of them didn't know how to comfort him, because reality is just that cruel.

"None of the players from this period won a championship."

Perhaps thinking of Nowitzki and Ron Artest's Game 7 buzzer-beater, Haslem fell silent halfway through his sentence, while Bosh stood with his hands on his hips, head tilted back, speechless.

The thought of having to praise Li You and express gratitude in front of the media made Wade even consider a "smart injury".

Looking at the only division champion banners hanging in the arena, and thinking about his good friend LeBron James's good days in Los Angeles, with the new season not even starting yet, Wade felt utterly bored.
"Maybe I should consider retiring. If I have to be humiliated by some young players in the future, I'd rather leave sooner!"

"."

Although the Warriors suffered a crushing defeat in the Finals, the Heat, as the Knicks' long-time rivals, were well aware of the young players' abilities.

With the smallest net point differential in recent years, the current Warriors' pure strength is close to that of the "Big Three" Heat team from a few years ago.

Thinking of Curry's ultimate honor of "One Man, One City," Bosh lost interest, but still patted his teammate encouragingly and said:
"We still have a chance. Leave the post-game interview to me. We have to try, no matter what, even if it's just to win one game at Madison Square Garden!"

Since joining the Heat, Bosh has never beaten the Knicks. He doesn't crave a championship; he just wants to win in the holy land of basketball, show off, and vent his frustration from years of losses.

When the topic of winning came up, Haslem started yelling loudly. Infected by his teammates, Wade's dark face also broke into a smile. He punched the two of them and said self-deprecatingly:
"You're right, we need to experience what it feels like to win!"

"I swear, I'll beat those damn little black guys to a pulp! And shut those New York lunatics up their stinking mouths while I'm at it!"

"." (End of this chapter)