Rekindling the dream of becoming a star

Chapter 318 Western Conference Finals Preview
After losing to the Thunder, the Clippers will host the Trail Blazers on the 17th.

This game seemed to be an outburst of anger from the Clippers, with Portland's two stars completely suppressed and Chen Fang clocking out after only three quarters.

His stats of 27 points, 5 assists, and 6 rebounds are commendable.

In a post-game interview, Chen Fang made no comment on the Thunder's conflict, only praising Bridges' outstanding performance, much to the disappointment of the dozens of reporters present.

With this win, the Clippers team gets a valuable rest before facing the Dallas Mavericks at home on the 20th.

Given the recent tight schedule and the players' fatigue, Rivers announced that the entire team would have two days off and would return to the team on the morning of the 20th.

But Chen Fang did not rest; he attended the coaching staff meeting.

This meeting is to assess the effectiveness of the tactics implemented by Mazura over the past two weeks.

"Many of our losses were due to digging too deep a hole at the start," Brian said first, his face serious. After glancing at Mazura, who also had a stern expression, he continued, "Take the Thunder as an example."

"Our starting lineup is Brunson, Di Vencenzo, Bridges, Richon, and Zubac."

"This lineup lacks offensive firepower and has average defense."

"So it gave the Thunder's core players plenty of time to find their rhythm. Paul George is a slow starter, and this game gave him ample opportunity to find his shooting touch."

"In addition, developing Brunson, DiVincenzo, and Bridges as the second unit has not been very effective so far."

"Their physique, willpower, and experience are insufficient to cope with the intensity of the regular season. There are a lot of mistakes, a lot of delays, and their tactics can't be executed even 30% of the time."

"Also, there is a functional conflict between Dillon and Beverley. They can only be in sync when Chen Fang is on the court. Once Chen Fang is not on the court, there will be excessive double-teaming, leading to defensive lapses."

“Zubac’s offense has not improved. His hook shot percentage in the paint is less than 4%, and his rim protection success rate is also less than 4%. He has problems such as hesitation when switching on defense, indecisiveness when taking shots, and too many deliberate fouls.”

"Jayson showed excellent defensive switching ability and was a certain deterrent in terms of rim protection, but there was also the problem that when he got the ball, the whole offense would come to a standstill."

"The only good news is that Jrue Holiday has been playing consistently. He has maintained the defensive intensity of our starters, and offensively, he is 38% from three-point range, which is very threatening."

Brian spoke at length, and finally looked at Rivers and said, "Strictly speaking, Joe's rotation plan has brought more losses so far, and as for its effectiveness, there has been no significant improvement."

Rivers first stopped Mazura from defending herself, then looked at Chen Fang and said, "Tell me your opinion."

Chen Fang pondered for a moment. His first thought was to support Mazura, but upon further reflection, he considered things more deeply and said, "Everyone is adapting."

"Adaptation is a process. What I feel in the team is that everyone is passionate and eager for this season."

"We shouldn't demand precision like a machine, nor should we expect this to be a factory that must produce a certain yield rate within a specified time and with a specified amount of consumables."

"If I had to use an analogy, it's more like boiling water. Even though the flames are already quite large, it takes time to see the water bubble and boil."

Chen Fang's words prompted the coaching staff to ponder. Brian frowned and remained silent. Rivers, seeing that his intentions had been conveyed, took over the reins.

"You are all right, but everyone here started as a player, and I think no one can be fully prepared in a short time."

"This year's rookies are already very good, far beyond their peers. Brunson's performance is second only to Doncic and Trae Young. He has shown great momentum and potential at the guard position."

"The same goes for everyone else. I'm glad we didn't make any mistakes in this draft."

Rivers's conciliatory approach relieved a lot of pressure on Mazura. Mazura then got up to review the defensive issues in recent games and came up with improvement plans.

The meeting then got down to business, and the five-hour meeting finally ended before dinner time.

Chen Fang readily accepted Rivers' private invitation.

The two drove to a steakhouse. Rivers was clearly a regular customer, as he knew the place well. He introduced the dishes to Chen Fang while greeting the staff.

The two sat down in a quiet private room.

"Sometimes, problems arise simply from the tipping of the scales."

Chen Fang understood the seemingly random remark immediately and nodded in agreement: "Yes, even within the team, there are people who are unhappy with why I favor Dillon."

"Joe's idea is correct, but the problem is that there isn't enough time."

"Yes, I was too impatient," Chen Fang admitted, but then he changed his tone: "But I really think this year is an opportunity."

"Reason?" Rivers was also curious to know why Chen Fang was in such a hurry.

"I guess so," Chen Fang said, but then stopped the car.

His memory told him that in the following years, the alliance had entered a period of great upheaval.

There are no absolute champions. The Raptors, Lakers, Bucks, Warriors, Nuggets, and Celtics have all won championships. For Chen Fang, the Clippers can do the same.

Behind these teams are countless failures in their quest for the championship.

Heat, Suns, Nets, Mavericks.

Everything is changing; this is an unpredictable era. Even the best NBA experts make mistakes.

With himself being a disruptor, the information advantage he could gain would soon be gone. Now, he has no choice but to build a strong lineup and develop new tactics.

Rivers had no choice but to give up, but he then steered the conversation toward preserving the current roster.

"If you were to choose a roster that lasts for more than five years, which teammates would you choose to keep?"

Chen Fang put down his knife and fork. He looked up at the head coach, Rivers, who smiled and asked in his distinctive hoarse voice, "I believe that by then, I will no longer be with the Clippers, and the team will have new faces."

Chen Fang remained silent. This was indeed an unavoidable topic; when faced with reality and friendship, there was always a dilemma.

"This was just a joke between friends, and I won't spread it around."

“In my mind, there is indeed a perfect roster. Given the Clippers’ current financial resources, I believe that once the owner is convinced, he is willing to pay a high luxury tax for it,” Chen Fang said slowly.

"But I still want to find a reasonable answer to team building from the current roster."

"Jayson will be an excellent offensive and defensive big man, Bridges will become a reliable 3-and-D player, Brunson's leadership ability will gradually emerge, Dillon is a great spiritual leader, and Zubac will eventually become the Clippers' pillar."

"DiVincenzo would be a good outside scorer; he's a surprise weapon for the Clippers."

“Journaldine can maintain his competitive form and will still be an excellent starter even six or seven years from now.”

Rivers listened quietly, each of Chen Fang's words gradually sketching a lineup in his mind.

He waited until Chen Fang picked up his knife and fork again before asking, "Is this your lineup?"

"Well, I should add some more, on the perimeter and inside."

“Now we have an eight-man rotation, plus Beverley, Harrell, Richon, and Thornwell,” Chen Fang said, looking up. “That’s 12 players, the core of our championship run.”

“Where are Lou Williams and Ross?” Rivers asked.

“They…!” Chen Fang hesitated.

“Lou Williams and Ross both have extremely strong experience and ability; they will be even bigger surprise weapons,” Rivers continued.

Chen Fang nodded, then recalled how Lou Williams had shocked the entire league in the first round of the playoffs, losing 4-2 to the Warriors.

"So, we have a great chance this year."

"From the outside, the Clippers only have me as a strong point, but we all know that the Clippers' current roster is reasonable enough."

"But this also brings a hidden danger: once you can't play, the Clippers have no chance of winning," Rivers suddenly interjected.

“I will not let that happen,” Chen Fang replied resolutely.

Rivers was just saying it offhand; he had always believed in ghosts and spirits and dared not let his words become a prophecy, so he immediately shut up.

Half an hour later, the two walked out of the steakhouse. As they parted, Rivers revealed the real reason for the invitation.

“You have done well enough, but I can see the fear in the players’ eyes.”

"You've been too assertive lately."

"Really?" When it was Chen Fang's turn to be surprised, he was completely unaware.

"Relax, don't become the next Kobe." Rivers' words surprised Chen Fang.

"Neither Kobe nor LeBron should be your role model."

"You will be a leader with a completely new style."

“We have plenty of time. Sometimes, that’s how games are. They’re full of uncertainty. Brian’s concerns are valid, but I trust Mazura’s judgment.”

"If they keep it up, they will adapt and show their original competitive talent."

"Thank you, sir. I think you are the true soul of the Clippers." Chen Fang was sincerely convinced; Rivers's interpersonal skills and leadership were truly beyond reproach.

"Prepare well for the Warriors game, and of course, the Lakers game too. The owner values ​​this game more," Rivers reminded him.

"I know for sure, I won't lose these two games." Chen Fang revealed a confident smile.

※※※

After winning against Portland, the Clippers will face the Dallas Mavericks at home on the 20th.

This was also Chen Fang's first meeting with Doncic.

After playing for almost two months, Doncic has secured a spot on the All-Rookie First Team and is known as one of the "Rookie Duo" along with Trae Young. They show no signs of being stuck in the rookie rut and are dominating the game.

Actually, there's nothing surprising about this. He started playing professionally in 15 with one of the best teams in Europe, Real Madrid.

In 17, he helped the Slovenian national team win the EuroBasket men's basketball championship, and in 18, he helped Real Madrid win the EuroLeague and the Spanish championship.

Therefore, it was only natural that he could start his legendary career in the NBA without any obstacles at the age of 19.

As for Trae Young, that was another path to becoming a king. He was looked down upon from a young age, which fueled his obsessive passion for scoring. His size also made him more focused on outside shooting.

In this respect, he is very similar to Curry.

Looking at the NBA now, due to rule changes, the containment of outside scorers has dropped to its lowest level, with rules giving advantages to both shooting and driving.

Don't underestimate the rules. Harden, who has memorized them perfectly, has already reaped the benefits. The future SGA will also become very popular because of this.

Chen Fang didn't intend to exchange pleasantries, but Doncic approached him on his own.

That's the charm of it all; after a few seemingly innocuous words, Doncic still managed to reveal his brilliance.

"Today, I'll get even better stats. This isn't a provocation, but a tribute to you," Doncic, whose face was still angular and hadn't gained weight yet, said to Chen Fang. "Good luck!" Chen Fang smiled and patted Doncic on the shoulder before turning and leaving.

He went to the bench and called over Dillon.

"Call on the brothers, give those Eastern European lads a good treat!"

Dillon blinked, then began to relay the instructions.

The Mavericks are currently in a rebuilding phase this season.

Apart from Doncic, there's almost no one else on the team worth noting. Barnes, Nowitzki, Jordan, Smith—well, at least Chen Fang isn't worried.

DeAndre Jordan walked over, and Chen Fang immediately went to greet him.

"How are you feeling in Dallas?" Chen Fang asked first.

"It's pretty good. Although it's not as bustling as California, you know, I'm past the age of playing around, and it's time to think about supporting my family."

It has to be said that DeAndre Jordan's emotional intelligence is so high that he made his intention to leave the Clippers very reasonable. Of course, Chen Fang wouldn't mind, since DeAndre Jordan was going to make way for Zubac and Jaren anyway.

“This is a win-win strategy, bro. Play for a few more years and earn more,” Chen Fang said, hugging DeAndre Jordan.

"Yes, hopefully today won't be too bad," DeAndre Jordan said.

As a former teammate, DeAndre Jordan is well aware of the Clippers' current roster structure. Unlike the media, he doesn't believe that the Clippers can beat the Mavericks even without Chen Fang on the court.

"How is Luca?"

DeAndre Jordan glanced at Chen Fang a few more times, as if trying to ascertain the true meaning behind the question.

"You're incredibly talented, just like back then, when I saw you like that." DeAndre Jordan stated clearly and without ambiguity.

"Let me see!" Chen Fang said and turned to leave. Little Jordan was all too familiar with this smell and knew that Luca must have provoked him. However, he wouldn't make a fuss; instead, he was quite looking forward to it.

The Mavericks' starting lineup consists of Smith, Matthews, Barnes, Doncic, and Jordan.

This lineup is strange. Rick Carlisle actually has no cards to play. He wants to maximize the attack and also wants to develop potential players through more playing time.

The key targets are Smith and Doncic.

Although Doncic plays the power forward position, he is still the one who handles the ball and organizes the offense.

At the start of the first quarter, the Clippers specifically employed a high-pressing strategy.

Dillon, Jrue Holiday, and Bridges were exceptionally active in the arc area, and the Mavericks' four-outside lineup was immediately suppressed.

Luca was heavily guarded by Dillon. Even if he managed to break free, Chen Fang, who was providing full-area support and switching defense, would appear in front of him, either to steal the ball or to draw an offensive violation.

Three minutes later, Carlisle substituted Doncic.

A dejected Doncic returned to the bench. He hasn't yet picked up the bad habit of shrug and beg for money, after all, he lacks confidence and hasn't reached the point where he thinks he can act arrogantly in the league.

He thought he would only rest for a few minutes, but he didn't return to the court until the latter part of the second quarter.

After reflecting on the entire quarter and figuring out his strategy, the Clippers changed their lineup again as soon as he arrived.

Beverley, Brunson, Dillon, Bridges, and Harrell—none of these five are easy to deal with.

The Clippers once again focused their defense on the area from the top of the key to the logo, employing a combination of switching on every screen and half-court defense.

Beverly may not be as bad as Dillon, but his foul mouth is far worse.

"Hey, pretty boy, what are you doing here?"

"Get out of my way!" Luca said with annoyance, pushing away Beverly, whose mouth reeked of foul breath.

"I'm not going anywhere, listen, behave yourself, or you'll be spraining your ankle soon."

"You can try." Luca was furious. He wasn't a hothead; he was someone who had been beaten down by the European leagues for three years.

Doncic thought Beverley wouldn't dare, but when he received the ball, used a skillful dribbling fake to get past Beverley, and took a small jump shot, he actually saw out of the corner of his eye that Beverley was pushing his foot over.

"Shit! Damn it!" Luca roared in fury. He immediately looked for the referee, intending to appeal.

However, this kind of uninterrupted game undoubtedly allows the team to form a 4-on-5 defense.

Brunson sank his third three-pointer of the game with a wide-open shot. Carlisle was furious. Instead of criticizing Smith for his defense, he told the assistant coach to immediately request a substitution.

The referee ignored Doncic, who was running and chasing him. Doncic was feeling helpless when, after a foul, he heard the buzzer for a substitution. He turned around and saw that it was Doncic who was being substituted.

"Fuck!" In a terrible mood, he walked dejectedly toward the bench. He wanted to ask the coach why he was being substituted again, but before he could even open his mouth, Carlisle preemptively spoke up.

Are you a professional player?

"You're in a competition, not at a dance. Who told you you could do that?"

"Stop your arrogance. This is the NBA. Reflect on your actions."

Carlisle didn't give Doncic a chance to defend himself, pointing and turning his head away, showing no respect whatsoever to this future cornerstone.

In fact, Carlisle's brute force and domineering attitude sowed the seeds for his eventual departure when Doncic established himself and started putting up impressive numbers.

Doncic simply told management, "I need to be respected."

As for why Beverley dared to make these moves without any instruction from others, it's simply his understanding and mindset about basketball. In the near future, when defending KD in the playoffs, he will do the same thing.

It's dirty, but it's very effective.

Otherwise, how could he possibly contain KD?

Without Luka, the Mavericks' offense became smoother, but it was very thin.

Chen barely played in the second half, scoring 18 points, 5 assists, and 3 rebounds before clocking out, leaving more time for veterans and rookies.

As for the data, Chen Fang didn't value it much; his approach was different from others.

First, accumulate stats, then pursue a big contract, and finally seek accolades—this is the usual operating procedure for NBA superstars. But for Chen Fang, accolades come first, and everything else follows later.

Data is really useful, but at this stage, Chen Fang values ​​team improvement more.

No one will dare to laugh at his declining data, because those who do laugh will be proven wrong and made to question their existence.

The Clippers defeated the Mavericks 117-96 at home.

Doncic only managed an embarrassing 6 points, 3 assists, and 2 rebounds. He was so embarrassed that he left the court before the game was over.

Chen Fang smiled. In some ways, he really did resemble someone.

He hugged DeAndre Jordan again, who gave a wry smile.

"Ruthless enough!"

"Really?" Chen Fang blinked, then spread his hands to show his innocence: "That's how we do things."

The Clippers barely had a chance to exert themselves after winning against the Mavericks, but there was a little incident after the game.

"It's said that Trae Young is your good brother. We all saw that the Clippers did a lot of things against Luka in this game. I'd like to know if there's any connection between that and that?" a Dallas reporter asked sharply.

"Remove the 'it is said'!" Chen Fang smiled and continued, "This kind of speculation is absurd. We just want to win."

"What's your assessment of Luka in this match?" a reporter interjected.

"No, I think I'll have more playing time next time so I can have a chance to comment." Chen Fang's overly sharp words surprised the reporters, because most of the time, Chen Fang gave the impression of being smooth and diplomatic.

As a result, rumors began to circulate after the match that Chen Wang deliberately suppressed the newcomer Luka, and Trae Young even called to ask about it.

"What are you thinking about?" Chen Fang hung up the phone impatiently.

But the rumors spread and became more and more outrageous, and even people across the ocean knew about it. When Wu Zi returned home, she jokingly asked about it.

This annoyed Chen Fang; it was clearly a normal match, but it was being misinterpreted.

But unexpectedly, a certain person resolved this public opinion storm.

"I don't think so. Chen Wang wouldn't be that narrow-minded. I think Luca probably said something to Chen Wang before the match."

“You know, King Chen will retaliate even more fiercely against all provocations,” Green shrugged and explained.

Chen Fang stared in disbelief at the video of the reporter interviewing Green. Good heavens, no wonder they say the person who understands you best is your enemy.

"Okay, maybe this is just a smokescreen!" That was all Chen Fang could think.

With the game against Golden State drawing ever closer, Green's defense of Chen Wang suddenly became a hot topic.

On the 22nd, they faced the Nuggets at home. Considering that the next day was an away game against the Golden State Warriors, Chen Fang was rested and witnessed Jokic's masterpiece.

Triple!

But the inexperienced Murray and Jokic couldn't win the game, and the Clippers' young team, led by Brunson and Lou Williams, won 121-112.

Lou Williams delivered a dominant performance, scoring 31 points and setting a new season high. Rivers praised him highly in the locker room, showering him with compliments. As the team's leader, Chen Fang also offered words of respect.

Everyone packed their bags with great enthusiasm and boarded the plane to San Francisco.

Tomorrow, a long-awaited and highly anticipated battle will take place.

The entire league is focused on this.

The "Fast vs. Warriors" rivalry has become the hottest topic in the league.

Chen Fang, who had just gotten off the plane, gave brief answers to the reporters who swarmed around him.

"This time, we have all our personnel, and this will be a match worth looking forward to."

The Golden State Five are clearly in sight, awaiting the arrival of the Los Angeles Clippers.

Outside the Datong Stadium, a chilly wind was blowing.

"Tomorrow, please get up early and join us for this highly anticipated match," Duan Ran confidently laid the groundwork before the game.

Barkley bluntly predicted, "This is a preview of the Western Conference Finals. This time, neither side has any excuses. Winning or losing can mean everything."

(End of this chapter)