NBA: Yao Ming at his peak returns to his rookie season

During the offseason, the Nets also added a center to provide physical support.

Jason Collins.

His characteristics are comparable to a budget version of Yao Ming.

Of course, this "beggar's version" is for Yao Ming's previous life.

Collins isn't fast, but he has excellent vision, weighs 283 pounds, and possesses the ability to provide support, shoot close-range shots, and set a few picks and rolls.

These qualities allowed Collins to thrive with the Nets.

Collins is arrogant now.

This guy's arrogance stemmed from the season opener game between the Nets and the Timberwolves. In that game, led by Kidd, he not only successfully contained the former prodigy Olowokandi, but also put up 8 points and 15 rebounds.

Olowokandi was once the number one draft pick in the NBA draft and was known as the "next Hakeem Olajuwon".

He didn't get a single point!

However, the Nets suffered a major setback right at the start of the game.

Yao Ming easily won the jump ball, and Francis pushed the ball forward, only to be blocked by Jason Kidd outside the three-point line, as is quite common.

Francis felt uneasy whenever he was matched up against Kidd.

This guy is stronger than Francis, but not as fast.

But every time they faced off, he managed to defend Francis so effectively that he had no chance.

The Nets' defense was very tight.

Their defense isn't as aggressive as the Pistons' or Pacers', but it's still a well-organized, above-average roster.

Francis was unable to consistently bring the ball into the paint.

Start passing the ball.

It took more than ten seconds for the ball to barely reach Yao Ming's hands.

This is all just taking the blame.

Their strategy revolves around utilizing their forwards' defense to severely limit the time the ball is given to the inside. This is why an unknown player like Collins can put up impressive stats and shut down a former number one draft pick – they simply don't give the opponent any opportunities to attack inside!

Of course, this style of play will also slow down the Nets' own pace.

To drag out the game rounds.

The Orlando Magic dominated viewership during this period, and there was a reason for it. Besides Tracy McGrady's impressive playing style, the contrast provided by his teammates was also crucial.

As Yao Ming held the ball, Collins behind him started muttering, "You weakling, you're not a man at all. Did you even ask those enthusiastic guys..."

Before he could finish his trash talk, Yao Ming's butt had already forcefully thrust in!

Now Yao Ming is underweight and his hip circumference is not large enough, so his back-to-the-basket move is naturally far inferior to what he used to be.

But it also depends on who the opponent is.

Not to mention comparing him to those superstar centers, he's far inferior to Cato and Collins.

So Yao Ming successfully got into position on his first attempt, and with a super smooth and skillful turnaround layup, he scored 2 points over Collins.

"It's okay if you didn't finish your trash talk, you can continue next time!" Yao Ming glared at Collins.

He doesn't object to trash talk on the field.

As long as it's not a foul, it's allowed in the game; it's an extra offensive technique. But Yao Ming hates personal attacks.

Collins has pissed him off.

The Rockets entered defensive transition.

Kidd and Kenyon Martin were speechless, never expecting Yao Ming to score on that.

Offensive round

Kidd only got a chance to score a layup after almost 20 seconds of play.

They didn't have an easy time.

With Yao Ming anchoring the paint, if they want to improve their close-range shooting percentage, they risk being blocked or even having their shots blocked by him.

The imposing presence of that height was simply too overwhelming.

Even worse was the Rockets' offense; they were still trying to get the ball to Yao Ming.

As long as the ball is passed to Collins, it's essentially a matter of watching Yao Ming score.

Kidd exploded just 3 minutes into the game.

"Can you stop playing defense like a girl! That's Yao Ming, a freshman softie, not Shaq!" Kidd roared at Collins.

The Nets have redesigned their tactics for the new season.

Kidd also clashed with Coach Scott.

They believe that by strengthening their wing defense, denying the ball to their interior players, and using Scott on defense, they can close the gap between themselves and the Lakers.

All I can say is that he was a tactical genius and executed the plan well, but the opponent was not cooperative!

Before they even faced the Lakers, Yao Ming had already shown them what a 'super center' truly was!

Yao Ming is certainly not comparable to Shaquille O'Neal at this point in his career.

Even with external advantages, the difference in innate physical attributes is still significant.

But Yao Ming's skills are still there.

As long as he can get inside, Yao Ming decides how the ball goes, whether it's a soft or hard shot, and that's all that matters!

The Rockets' shooting percentage was far higher than the Nets', and they were outscored 9-4 in 3 minutes.

Kidd must be furious after being beaten like this by the Rockets!

Jason Kidd began his on-court management, bringing out both ace Kenyon Martin and Jefferson.

It's impossible to defend Yao Ming in the low post because of his height, so Kidd's adjustment is to further strengthen the defensive perimeter and not give Yao Ming a chance to receive the ball!

The point guard's advantage in directing the offense on the court became apparent at this moment.

Because of Kidd's adjustments, the Nets kept the Rockets out of the paint for three consecutive possessions, preventing Yao Ming from getting any offensive opportunities.

Apart from Yao Ming grabbing one rebound, he didn't make any other plays during this period.

No results mean increased consumption.

Centers experience more physical exertion than guards.

The advantage is gradually returning to the Nets' hands.

The teams under Kidd's leadership will naturally revolve around him, forming a smooth system that seems like an extension of Kidd's body.

This kind of top-level field management ability is a test of talent and a truly formidable skill.

Yao Ming has experienced Kidd's characteristics more than once.

Tang Shuai has no new arrangements.

If it were in his previous life, Yao Ming might have continued to wait for the coach's orders and then relied on his own strength to hold his own against Francis.

But now, Yao Ming has more initiative.

At least he knows what the right thing to do is!

Take a deep breath.

This playing style might be criticized and rejected by fans, but if it's the Nets, Yao Ming is certain this is the best method.

Suddenly, during the Rockets' offensive play, Yao Ming grabbed someone and ran out.

Abandon the practice of standing still under the basket.

After following for two steps, the Nets' center, Grandpa, dared not follow any further; otherwise, the formation would be disrupted, and the area under the basket would become empty.

The Rockets have Francis and Mobley.

Leaving someone unguarded under the basket is extremely dangerous.

However, letting Yao Ming go is also very dangerous.

Letting Yao Ming run around freely is no less of a threat than letting him be under the basket!

Mobley was matched up against Martin, and he tried to break through, but Martin defended him so well that he had no chance.

It was at this moment that Yao Ming suddenly turned sideways.

A completely unfamiliar skin color.

The shadow completely enveloped Kenyon Martin, and as Martin turned to chase Mobley, Yao Ming turned back and followed.

A slight surge occurred, accompanied by Yao Ming's long legs.

With two big strides, Yao Ming has already driven into the paint.

This position is good; Mobley jumps and throws a crazy hook shot.

The shooting percentage was zero, but Yao Ming was there under the basket.

Collins, who was defending, was still in that position when Yao Ming got up and used his second step to send the basketball into the basket!

A loud "DUANG!" sound.

The basketball hoop was shaking!