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Dragon Emperor in Pokemon World.
The return of Itachi
I am Sasuke. Why should I defect from Konoha.
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***
On tuesday, January 12, 2004, at Madison Square Garden, New York fans witnessed another scoring feast.
The Dallas Mavericks were challenging the New York Knicks on the road.
With 23.5 seconds left in the 3rd quarter, as Michael Finley assisted Dirk Nowitzki to hit a three-pointer from the right wing, the score reached 99:99.
The high score excited the New York fans in attendance, who felt they had gotten their money's worth tonight.
Head Coach Don Nelson repeatedly urged his players to retreat on Defense.
Tonight, the Mavericks were almost undefended.
Their Defense was simply man-to-man.
After Nowitzki moved to the 5th position, the 'mutual penetration' offense had become the norm in the regular season.
After three quarters, both teams had a chance to break 100 points, and many fans in the front row stood up and applauded, as offense was indeed more entertaining than Defense.
"Let's go Knicks!"
For the New York Knicks' last possession of the 3rd quarter, the fans continued to cheer loudly for their home team.
Clay Lee brought the ball over half-court and started to control the clock.
Steve Nash played very well tonight.
There weren't many half-court possessions for either side.
When the pace picked up, it compensated for his disadvantage.
Watching Lee run down the clock near the Logo, Steve Nash didn't actively step up to guard him closely, maintaining a certain defensive distance, which was a consensus among all players in the NBA.
Time quickly elapsed, and soon there were less than 10 seconds left.
The Mavericks didn't double-team, still opting for man-to-man Defense as usual.
With less than 6 seconds left, Lee finally made his move.
As he approached the three-point line, he dribbled the ball between his legs with his left hand, then quickly changed direction with a front-of-the-body crossover.
He continuously shook his defender, closing in.
Seeing Lee's movement, Steve Nash, standing on the three-point line, began to actively interfere with his hands.
Lowering his center of gravity quickly, Lee dribbled the ball between his legs again.
The moment he switched to his right hand, he suddenly performed an In-and-Out dribble.
While circling the ball inward, Lee's body swayed to the left-front.
Steve Nash subconsciously slid to the right, instantly losing his defensive position.
Feinting left and driving right, Clay Lee quickly took a large step forward to the right-front as he shook off his defender.
Then, he immediately stopped abruptly at the top of the arc, not giving his opponent a chance to rush in from his side, and quickly took a jump shot from beyond the three-point line!
As the basketball flew through the air, the shot clock light had already lit up, and the cheers grew louder and louder.
Some fans raised their hands as they watched the basketball swish through the net.
"Wow!"
99:102. After three quarters, the New York Knicks' score broke a hundred.
At the MSG commentary table, Marv Albert couldn't help but exclaim loudly:
"Crazy game, crazy scoring!"
"Watching a game like this on a monday night, I think the fans here will all be happy."
Walt Frazier also found it unbelievable.
He knew that the score in the 4th quarter would definitely exceed 120 points, and such a scene was rare in today's NBA:
"The Mavericks indeed showed their terrifying scoring ability. By the end of the game, both teams' possessions will exceed 90."
"Compared to the previous defensive battles, tonight's game was indeed more exciting."
After three quarters, Clay Lee had already scored 35 points, shooting 12 of 19 from the field, 5 of 9 from beyond the arc, and 6 of 6 from the free-throw line.
On the New York Knicks' bench, Coach D'Antoni hadn't expected his opponent to be so stubborn, nor had he expected them to truly withstand the offensive battle.
Nowitzki had already scored 24 points, shooting 9 of 16 from the field, 3 of 8 from beyond the arc, and 3 of 4 from the free-throw line.
"Keep attacking! They can't maintain this efficiency forever!"
"What we need to do is speed up the pace of the game!"
Mike D'Antoni, sitting in front of everyone, didn't mention Defense at all.
After a couple of sentences, he began to instruct the rotational lineup about to enter the game, telling Knight to also run.
On the other side, Don Nelson also didn't mention Defense.
He instructed the small guard Travis Best, who was about to enter the game:
"Shoot when you get the chance! We have to believe in ourselves!"
"Move, shoot decisively, and make the opponent run."
The Mavericks' rotational lineup looked decent on paper, with Best and Daniels forming the backcourt, and the frontcourt consisting of Antawn Jamison, Michael Finley, and Antoine Walker.
Shrinking their lineup, the Mavericks continued to pick up the pace.
The New York Knicks did the same, with Knight and Raja Bell forming the backcourt, and the frontcourt consisting of Grant Hill, Tayshaun Prince, and Amar'e Stoudemire.
Defense had been thrown out the window by both sides.
At this point, it was all about offense.
Returning to his seat, Clay Lee looked relaxed.
This game wasn't very physically demanding.
Steve Nash's Defense was quite active, but shaking him off was easy.
Mike D'Antoni, for once, didn't lean back strategically on the bench but came to the sidelines, passionately directing like Don Nelson.
Both coaches seemed to prefer this kind of chaotic, run-and-gun game pace.
In most games, Ewing was responsible for hyping up Pau Gasol, but tonight, that trick wasn't working.
Half of the German big man's offense came from three-pointers, and some was from dribble drives.
Back-to-the-basket post-ups were rare.
Watching both sides start to run wildly again, Gorilla no longer dwelled on it.
Instead, he lamented to Lee beside him:
"Seven All-Star selections. If there hadn't been a lockout season, this should be your eighth."
"In the NBA, the 96 draft class are already veterans!"
Having just turned 26 after his birthday, though his age was increasing, Lee felt he had also gotten stronger:
"Being a veteran is good. You get more respect!"
Ewing recalled his own career.
Basketball analysts only truly began to respect him after he won a championship.
Noticing Nowitzki preparing to enter the game early, Gorilla remembered his reputation and couldn't help but sigh again:
"To overturn some stereotypes, you really need the endorsement of a championship."
After the Mavericks made their trade, their record wasn't ideal.
In such circumstances, basketball analysts had been constantly criticizing Nowitzki recently.
The white big man who liked to shoot, Nowitzki was still labeled as "soft."
The game had been going on for almost three minutes, and both teams had continuous turnovers and missed shots, resulting in no points scored.
Don Nelson watched anxiously, shouting twice as Antawn Jamison fumbled the ball on the left wing again.
After Grant Hill completed the steal, the small guard Knight stepped forward to receive the ball.
In a semi-transition offense, the New York Knicks players chased their opponents' behinds across half-court.
In a "V-shape" alignment, at the left elbow, Amar'e Stoudemire set a screen, then quickly rolled to the basket.
Knight, with the ball in his left hand, couldn't shake off Best in time, and his bounce pass was of poor quality.
Amar'e Stoudemire, rolling down the middle, received the ball but had no time to adjust, and the ball was again stripped by Antoine Walker.
"Oh!"
The New York fans in attendance sighed in unison.
After the bench lineup entered, the offensive pace didn't change, but the game turned into a chicken-pecking contest.
Not every guard can execute a pick-and-roll well.
The stark contrast was that the game flowed much better when Steve Nash and Clay Lee were on the court.
With 8 minutes and 52 seconds left in the game, as Amar'e Stoudemire committed a foul and Antoine Walker stepped to the free-throw line, both Head Coaches simultaneously decided to bring back their starting lineups.
For the New York Knicks, Grant Hill went to the bench for a rest, while Tayshaun Prince remained on the court.
The Mavericks also kept Daniels in, with Nowitzki continuing to play at the 5th position.
Amar'e Stoudemire, back on the bench, was not in a good mood.
He didn't like running back and forth.
This season, the small guard Knight had many injuries, and his game state also fluctuated, which meant Amar'e Stoudemire had fewer easy baskets.
Clay Lee, re-entering the game, stood beyond the three-point line and teased Steve Nash beside him:
"With the Mavericks' current record, you have a very high chance of not being selected for the All-Star Game."
"I can just get a few extra days of rest. The All-Star Game is quite boring!"
Steve Nash, leaning on his knee, clearly knew the situation and acted as if he didn't care about not being selected for the All-Star.
In the Western Conference, at the point guard position, there were Steve Francis and Sam Cassell.
The former had Yao Ming's boost, and the latter had a better record.
Steve Nash, in a contract year, spoke lightly, but not being selected for the All-Star would definitely affect him, allowing the Mavericks to potentially lower their offer.
Antoine Walker's free throw broke the scoring drought, 101:102, the Mavericks were still relentlessly chasing.
It was rare to have an opponent drag the game into the 4th quarter, and the New York fans were enjoying it, continuing to chant in unison:
"Let's go Knicks!"
Coach D'Antoni was also getting fired up at this point, loudly shouting from the sidelines, signaling everyone to spread out for offensive spacing.
Lee, receiving the ball on the baseline, slowly dribbled past half-court.
Seeing that the Mavericks were still playing man-to-man, he lowered his center of gravity at the top of the arc and accelerated with the ball in his right hand to drive.
As Lee led the ball forward, he rotated his hips and lengthened his stride.
Nash quickly slid back to his left, and Lee, seizing the opportunity, dribbled behind his back, immediately creating space for a shot.
Adjusting his center of gravity, Steve Nash quickly rushed to defend him.
Lee, now back at the three-point line, continuously dribbled between his legs in place, just avoiding his opponent's attempt to steal the ball.
Steve Nash, whose center of gravity was continuously shifted, had unconsciously pressed close in Defense.
Noticing Lee, who was holding the ball in his right hand, accelerated again, he instinctively slid back to his left.
Feigning a breakthrough, Lee dribbled a large step forward before quickly and powerfully slamming the ball down in place, then easily stepped back without interference.
The sudden stop made Steve Nash stumble.
Before he could jump to block, Clay Lee had already quickly jumped and shot from beyond the three-point line!
"Swish!" The three-pointer went straight through the net.
The clean and decisive shot reignited the Madison Square Garden atmosphere.
Don Nelson, Head Coach, showed little reaction, continuing to wave his hand, signaling Steve Nash to continue the offense.
Inbounding from the baseline, the Dallas Mavericks advanced very quickly.
Under Lee's lead Defense, Antoine Walker began screening in the backcourt.
When they reached the top of the arc, Dirk Nowitzki also settled there.
Steve Nash quickly dribbled the ball behind his back, switched to his right hand, and immediately accelerated to break through.
Pau Gasol followed Dirk Nowitzki, splitting off to the left wing, while Lee quickly squeezed through.
Although he was half a step behind, he quickly caught up to Steve Nash's side in Defense.
The New York Knicks had no one in the paint, so Kurt Thomas was forced to move to the left near the baseline to guard Antoine Walker.
The excellent breakthrough space allowed Steve Nash to drive straight to the basket.
Sensing that Lee had caught up in Defense, Steve Nash, upon reaching the paint, deliberately slowed down, leaned into the Defense, and after three big steps, charged towards the basket, near the lower right side.
Finally, facing the block, he twisted his body and shot a fadeaway floater!
Clay Lee, who was already prepared, leaped high.
Although Steve Nash elevated the arc, the basketball flying through the air was still touched by Lee's left fingertips.
It only changed direction slightly, and the basketball ultimately hit the backboard, then bounced off the rim and out.
Steve Nash, losing his balance, fell out of bounds.
Lee, after landing, grabbed the rebound and immediately charged with the ball.
Nash, who had climbed up from the floor, chased fiercely from behind.
The Dallas Mavericks players, at Don Nelson's shouted command, retreated extremely quickly, returning to half-court to establish defensive positions early.
Coach D'Antoni also shouted reminders, and the New York Knicks players all spread out again.
At the top of the arc, Lee, holding the ball in his left hand, suddenly performed a quick between-the-legs dribble against the tight Defense of Steve Nash.
While lowering his center of gravity, Lee, switching the ball to his right hand, quickly reset his feet as his opponent slid, completing another between-the-legs dribble.
Steve Nash, still twisting his body and sliding back to his left, watched helplessly as Clay Lee, holding the ball in his left hand, squeezed past him on his right side, easily breaking into the paint.
"Oh!"
The beautiful crossover made the New York fans cheer.
Dirk Nowitzki saw Lee break through to directly in front of the basket in the blink of an eye and quickly moved forward to jump and block.
Lee, having gathered the ball early, jumped off his left foot and smoothly executed a floater with his left hand.
The basketball sailed over Dirk Nowitzki's fingertips, and by inertia, the latter also hit Lee's shoulder.
"Squeak! Swish!"
"Wow!"
The whistle blew and the shot went in, and Madison Square Garden erupted again.
Clay Lee also showed a smile, shaking his head slightly at the Dallas Mavericks players, before strolling to the free-throw line.
In less than a minute on the court, the New York Knicks quickly racked up points.
The delighted fans couldn't help but shout again:
"MVP! MVP! MVP!"
101:108. After the successful free throw, the New York Knicks once again extended their lead.
Don Nelson immediately called a timeout. Dirk Nowitzki was a bit frustrated.
He had given up several 2+1s in this game.
"We're playing well! Keep it up, Michael. I want to see you actively demand the ball, not just wait in the corner!"
Michael Finley immediately nodded upon hearing his Head Coach's words.
He had a poor performance in the first half but exploded in the third quarter, and he knew the team needed him at this moment.
In the first possession after the timeout, during the Dallas Mavericks' half-court offense, Steve Nash crossed half-court and decisively passed the ball to Michael Finley on the right wing.
The latter received the ball, facing Ron Artest's Defense, and after several left-foot jab steps, quickly put the ball down with his right hand and drove with a crossover step.
Sliding quickly and initiating body contact, Ron Artest also followed with his left hand to try and steal the ball, while his right hand was subtly pulling.
Under such Defense, Michael Finley was forced to slow down as he drove to the right restricted area, finally leaning into the Defense and quickly turning, moving closer to the paint, and forcing a fadeaway jump shot over the block.
"Bang!"
Ron Artest, whose Defense was not out of position, made his opponent's shot wildly off, hitting the backboard, grazing the rim, and falling directly into Pau Gasol's hands.
After receiving the ball, Lee chased the Dallas Mavericks players across half-court again.
He noticed that the opponents had completed their defensive matchups again, with two wing players guarding the corners.
Lee, holding the ball in his left hand, shuffled sideways, slowing down as he moved to the left wing.
Tayshaun Prince immediately cut along the baseline, drawing away his defender, while Ron Artest ran from the corner to the right wing.
Still no double-team, Lee suddenly twisted his body and led the ball forward, his feet quickly performing a "scissor step" while his right hand quickly pulled the ball in the opposite direction.
Steve Nash, instinctively sliding back to his right, only heard two "slap slap" sounds as the basketball disappeared from in front of him.
"OH—! ClayGod!"
Marv Albert shouted excitedly, seeing Steve Nash adjust his center of gravity and slide again, only to be faked to the ground by Clay Lee's quick in-and-out dribble, he couldn't help but exclaim again:
"OMG!"
Steve Nash braced himself on the floor with his right hand, watching Lee, holding the ball in his left hand, drive straight to the basket.
He had no time to warn his teammates.
Dirk Nowitzki still tried to help defend and block, but Lee was too fast.
With Pau Gasol's screen, he couldn't jump fully.
In the air, he only managed to extend his right arm, felt a dull thud in his chest, and then completely lost his balance.
Clay Lee, jumping off both feet, ignored the block, pulled the ball back with his left hand, collided with the defender in mid-air, briefly hung in the air, and then slammed the ball down with a powerful dunk!
"Boom!"
"Squeak!"
The whistle blew and the man flew.
Lee completed a posterizing dunk.
The front-row fans under the basket jumped up with him, unconsciously screaming loudly to release their excitement.
Dirk Nowitzki, who fell heavily to the floor after landing and lay beneath the basket, could only watch as Clay Lee furiously pounded his chest towards the camera, yelling repeatedly along with the fans.
Two players were laid out in one possession.
Walt Frazier also joined in calling out to God, then instinctively exclaimed:
"Clay Lee showed his excellent body coordination! If only all teams defended like the Dallas Mavericks!"
"That way we could often enjoy Clay Lee's solo performances!"
Dirk Nowitzki, pulled up by his teammates, was dazed, then showed a bitter smile.
He knew that this beautiful dunk would be replayed repeatedly for the next half a month.
Perhaps Lee had slacked off a bit too much this season, and seeing such a scene was rare, making the New York fans even more excited.
They cheered again for a second time:
"MVP! MVP! MVP!"
101:111. After Lee made his free throw, the score difference reached double digits.
In the subsequent game, the Dallas Mavericks tried to play a free-flowing offense like in the first three quarters, but Dirk Nowitzki and Antoine Walker repeatedly missed shots, causing the team to fall into a scoring drought.
On the New York Knicks' side, it was Clay Lee isolating Steve Nash, interspersed with some simple drive-and-kick plays.
Although he missed some three-pointers in individual possessions, seeing the score continuously increase, Mike D'Antoni on the sidelines couldn't stop smiling.
In the latter half of the fourth quarter, the defensive intensity dropped, and Steve Nash and Dirk Nowitzki finally made some shots.
Along with the referees starting to blow their whistles, the Dallas Mavericks finally regained some face.
With 1 minute and 08 seconds left in the game, Antoine Walker missed a three-pointer from the right wing, and Clay Lee grabbed the long rebound near the free-throw line.
Nash quickly retreated on Defense, but with his stamina declining, Lee easily caught up to his side.
At the three-point line, the two collided.
Lee quickly pushed the ball for a change of direction, and after scooping the ball with his left hand, he bulldozed and squeezed past his opponent.
Having lost his defensive position, Steve Nash no longer fouled, stopping somewhat unsteadily and watching as Lee took three big steps, grabbed the ball with his left hand, and slammed it down with a one-handed chop dunk!
Spike Lee on the sidelines seemed even more excited than Lee, jumping up and down excitedly.
After high-fiving Lee, he even happily shouted to the fans behind him:
"Oh! The New York Knicks are champions!"
The New York fans, in a state of self-indulgence, automatically ignored the Dallas Mavericks players and began to cheer wholeheartedly.
In the final few possessions, both teams scored repeatedly.
The final buzzer sounded, and the score was set at 111:136.
In the final quarter, 12:34, the Dallas Mavericks were blown out by Clay Lee's individual offense.
7-of-9 from the field, 2-of-4 from three-point range, and 5-of-5 from the free-throw line.
Clay Lee felt good after scoring 21 points in a single quarter.
During the post-game interview with MSG, he said with a smile:
"I like games like this, and I like the defensive strategy the Dallas Mavericks employed even more!"
On tuesday, January 13th, TNT's program, in addition to previewing the broadcasted games, focused more on discussing Clay Lee's new season high.
In 39 minutes of play, he shot 19-of-28 from the field, 7-of-13 from three-point range, and 11-of-11 from the free-throw line, finishing with 56 points, 7 rebounds, 16 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks, and 1 turnover.
Clay Lee's 50+ large double-double was heavily praised by the New York Media that morning:
"The King of the Fourth Quarter — Clay-Lee!"
The New York Times' sports section's front-page headline was a bit exaggerated, as Clay Lee had only truly exerted himself in the 4th quarter in this one game so far this season.
However, the title wasn't important.
Fair-weather fans loved it, and reading the newspaper put them in a good mood.
In the studio, the director reviewed Coach D'Antoni's views expressed in an interview last night:
"Too many shots in the fourth quarter?"
"No, we have detailed statistics. Lee's isolation plays are the New York Knicks' most effective tactic!"
"Basketball is about putting the ball in the basket. With a nearly 80% field goal percentage, I think Lee isn't shooting enough."
"Yes, as long as the opponent doesn't double-team or help defensively, we will give the ball to Lee in the final quarter. Victory is sometimes that simple!"
Mike D'Antoni said these words with a big laugh during the interview, appearing extremely arrogant.
The New York Knicks had laid their cards on the table.
After reviewing this interview, the three remained silent for a moment.
Ernie Johnson saw his two partners looking like they wanted to speak but hesitated, then suddenly asked with a smile:
"Why the expressions? Guys, what do you think of Coach D'Antoni's words?"
Kenny Smith kept flipping through the statistics, finally forcing a smile, and replied with some helplessness:
"85.3% true shooting percentage! I don't know how to describe Clay Lee's performance."
"Perhaps Coach D'Antoni is right. After all, basketball isn't complicated, and we've witnessed superstars resolving games with individual ability many times."
Charles Barkley avoided the question and instead grumbled from a different angle:
"Clay Lee could clearly blow by Steve Nash in one step, but this guy always has to show off his fancy dribbling."
"If I were Nash, I'd just punch him!"
"Of course, Lee's control of the game is indeed excellent. The New York Knicks had 93 possessions but only 10 turnovers. That's their secret to winning."
In today's ESPN Sport Center program, Clay Lee alone accounted for 6 of the top 10 plays, and fans cheered excitedly after watching his highlights.
Kenny Smith threw his hands up at his partner's words, then joked with a smile:
"I disagree with your point. We must admit, Lee's crossovers are spectacular, and fans love to watch such performances!"
"Don't forget that the All-Star Game voting hasn't ended yet. I support Lee continuing to showcase himself."
After the three chatted for a while about the New York Knicks' performance over the past half-month, Ernie Johnson then revisited the Cavaliers versus Los Angeles Lakers game.
79:89. Despite missing Shaquille O'Neal and Karl Malone, and Kobe Bryant only playing 17 minutes, the home team Los Angeles Lakers only pulled away in the 4th quarter.
When old players suffer injuries, the recovery period is naturally very long.
Phil Jackson's dislike for Kobe Bryant was also exposed by ESPN.
Although the Los Angeles Lakers had a good record, they lacked the look of a champion.
"Kenny, you should know more about backcourt players. Can Payton regain his previous form?"
Hearing Ernie Johnson's question, Kenny Smith found it difficult to answer and ultimately resorted to polite generalities:
"Considering Payton's age, fluctuations in form are very normal."
"As long as he gets enough rest, I believe he will quickly regain his game form."
Playing 42 minutes, Payton shot 5-of-22, scoring 13 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, and 6 turnovers, almost causing the team to collapse.
This veteran had been in excellent form for the first two months, but by mid-January, he gradually declined.
Charles Barkley disliked his partner's fence-sitting opinion and took over, commenting seriously:
"I think Payton will find it very difficult to regain his previous game form!"
"He doesn't fit the Los Angeles Lakers' system, and even in pick-and-roll offense, he doesn't perform well enough."
"Considering the Los Angeles Lakers' age structure, I don't think they can defeat the New York Knicks."
"Can you imagine the Los Angeles Lakers scoring 136 points in a game? This is a difference in star quality."
Ernie Johnson also looked at the box score for this game.
LeBron James shot 6-of-20, scoring 16 points.
The Cavaliers led for three quarters but only scored 14 points in the fourth quarter.
"It's indeed a tough season for the Los Angeles Lakers. Kobe Bryant still needs to fly to Denver sometimes, which affects his performance."
Charles Barkley interrupted his partner and stated seriously again:
"These things are self-inflicted. I don't like such excuses."
"In the two games the Los Angeles Lakers played against the Dallas Mavericks, Kobe Bryant shot 9-of-23 in one and 4-of-18 in the other."
"Even if he doesn't make the All-Star Game, I wouldn't be surprised."
"If the Los Angeles Lakers want to win a championship, they should pray to God for Shaquille O'Neal to recover quickly."
Kenny Smith looked at Charles Barkley starting to rant again and felt a bit helpless.
Criticizing the Los Angeles Lakers always drew complaints.
On January 14th, in the Los Angeles Lakers' away game against the Denver Nuggets, Kobe Bryant was absent again, but Payton regained his form.
71:97. Led by Carmelo Anthony, the Los Angeles Lakers won handily against their opponent!
Rookie Anthony only had 6 points in the first half and finished with 14 points on 4-of-17 shooting for the entire game.
Such a performance naturally couldn't lead his team to victory.
Payton shot 9-of-13, efficiently scoring 21 points, a strong rebound that slapped TNT's program in the face.
After winning the game, Payton didn't forget to mock during his interview:
"The media only cares about stats and only hypes up individual performances."
"I know how to win. I don't care how many points I score in a game. I only care about the outcome of the game!"
After winning this game, the Los Angeles Lakers' record stood at 24 wins and 11 losses.
However, the Timberwolves also defeated the San Antonio Spurs that night, maintaining their lead in the Western Conference with a 26-11 record!
The losing San Antonio Spurs had a record of 26 wins and 13 losses, also surpassing the Los Angeles Lakers.
Although they lost, Tim Duncan performed exceptionally well in Gregg Popovich's strategy of giving the ball to his star player!
Playing 45 minutes, he shot 14-of-26 from the field, 8-of-15 from the free-throw line, finishing with 36 points, 20 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, and 1 turnover.
Grabbing 11 offensive rebounds, Duncan almost completely dominated Kevin Garnett in their matchup.
However, the San Antonio Spurs' perimeter play was poor.
Parker was completely outplayed by Sam Cassell.
Sam Cassell scored a team-high 33 points and dished out 9 assists, while champion guard Sprewell shot 10-of-19, also dominating the San Antonio Spurs' backcourt with an efficient 24 points!
The losing Tim Duncan couldn't help but complain during his interview:
"The team wasn't prepared enough for this game. We should have won!"
For several consecutive years, the San Antonio Spurs' backcourt had been a ATM for star players, and Duncan was starting to crack.
Gregg Popovich could only increase the dose of motivational speeches.
New York fans didn't care about other teams.
That night, in their home game against the Orlando Magic, the New York Knicks again crushed their opponent.
92:120. After the game, Madison Square Garden erupted once more.
Tracy McGrady shot 9-of-27 from the field, 2-of-7 from three-point range, and 6-of-8 from the free-throw line, finishing with 26 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists, 1 steal, and 5 turnovers.
Houston shot 8-of-18 from the field and 5-of-6 from the free-throw line, scoring 21 points. Both core players performed well, but the team's Defense collapsed.
With a 12-26 record, the Orlando Magic's record briefly improved before falling into another losing streak.
The lively atmosphere at Madison Square Garden brought a hint of nostalgia to Houston on the sidelines.
With recurring knee injuries this season, Houston often became unpredictable, and losses were naturally related to him.
Tracy McGrady left early through the player tunnel, while Clay Lee again inquired about his old teammate's injury.
"The medical team recommended surgery, but I want conservative treatment. The team still has a chance to make the playoffs."
Hearing Houston's words, Lee frowned.
Even if the Magic, plagued by injuries, managed to clinch the 8th spot, they would be an easy win.
"I suggest you get surgery sooner rather than later. There's no need to force your way into the playoffs. Facing us in the first round wouldn't be a good thing."
Houston shook his head, disagreeing with that view.
"Making the playoffs is a success in itself. At least it gives the fans something."
On the evening of the 16th, the New York Knicks played their final home game of the week.
The Seattle SuperSonics also suffered injuries this season, with Ray Allen returning after two months out, still finding his rhythm.
However, it was Rashard Lewis who struggled that night, shooting 3-for-11 in the first half, wasting Ray Allen's efficient performance.
42-60, the New York Knicks led by 18 points at halftime.
In the third quarter, the New York Knicks pushed again, with a 19-26 quarter, sending the game into garbage time in the final period.
Ultimately, 86-112, the New York Knicks secured a dominant victory!
Clay Lee played 28 minutes, shooting 10-for-15 from the field, 5-for-8 from beyond the arc, and 5-for-5 from the free-throw line, tallying 30 points, 4 rebounds, 11 assists, and 2 steals with no turnovers.
Ray Allen also performed well, shooting 6-for-12 from the field, 3-for-7 from three, and 6-for-6 from the free-throw line, efficiently scoring 21 points.
Both teams had back-to-back games the next day, so Lee could only exchange brief pleasantries with his friend.
The timing of his return from injury was good.
Ray Allen had a chance to be selected for the All-Star reserve roster.
In late January, the New York Knicks enjoyed a favorable schedule, continuing their winning streak!
After successively defeating the Chicago Bulls, Toronto Raptors, Celtics, and Atlanta Hawks, the team's record reached 42 wins and 3 losses.
In the Eastern Conference, such a record virtually guaranteed a playoff spot.
On the 24th, in a back-to-back game, returning to Madison Square Garden, New York fans expected to witness Clay Lee once again dominate Rookie Dwyane Wade, but the latter was out due to injury.
Streetball King Rafer Alston, who rarely started, faced a nightmare.
Under Head Coach Stan Van Gundy's intense gaze, Alston, playing 34 minutes, shot 1-for-8 from the field, 1-for-5 from three, and 1-for-2 from the free-throw line, finishing with 4 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 5 turnovers.
The Streetball King mostly passed the ball after crossing half-court, transforming into a dribbling point guard.
Wang Zhizhi didn't get any playing time in the game tonight.
Fortunately, the loss didn't dampen the post-game fun.
Clay Lee treated everyone, and John Wallace took the Heat players out for a good time.
The image-conscious black brothers felt immensely satisfied, and disregarding Wade's mood, they continued to boast on the plane the next day:
"Don't let Lee's superstar status fool you, he never puts on airs with his good brothers!"
"If it weren't to hone my skills, I might have chosen the New York Knicks."
"…"
With the hype men showering praises, "fake fan" Wade kept a long face.
Throughout the game, New York fans were shouting:
"Where is Wade?"
Wade, having just entered the NBA, wasn't thick-skinned enough, and the New York fans' taunts completely broke him.
Wang Zhizhi also listened to John Wallace's exaggerations from the side.
Although he's a chinese, he and Lee should have a good relation, unfortunately, Lee was more difficult and different than he imagined.
As the All-Star Game approached, most players were trying their Best to showcase themselves.
The Lakers had lost several games last week due to injuries and an incomplete roster.
The San Antonio Spurs, on their Eastern Conference road trip, also lost to the Milwaukee Bucks.
On the 27th, in a back-to-back challenge against the New York Knicks, the San Antonio Spurs suffered another crushing defeat.
At the end of the first quarter, 12-31, Duncan, walking to the bench, angrily threw his towel before even sitting down.
Amused fans grew even more excited at the sight, repeatedly cheering and shouting behind the San Antonio Spurs' bench.
Manu Ginobili shot 0-for-3, scoring 2 points, Parker shot 0-for-4, scoring zero points.
Bruce Bowen and Nesterovic combined for 4 points, while Duncan shot 3-for-7, contributing 6 points.
Sitting in front of his players, Gregg Popovich was almost speechless.
He knew better than anyone what a 19-point deficit meant.
Noticing Duncan's disappointed eyes, Popovich felt a sudden urgency and instinctively said:
"We still have a chance…"
Mid-sentence, Popovich suddenly fell silent.
Fortunately, the assistant coach, holding the clipboard, began instructing the players, easing the awkward atmosphere.
With his starters missing shots, Popovich made lineup rotations very early.
But what frustrated him was that the substitutes who came in—Devin Brown, Malik Rose, and Robert Horry—frequently committed turnovers.
Their outside shooting was poor, and Duncan, facing double-teams, also committed turnovers.
Giving up 8 turnovers in a single quarter, Popovich didn't want to see such a game.
The San Antonio Spurs, with their mentality shattered, continued their first-quarter performance in the second quarter, with the players on the court still committing turnovers.
At halftime, 32-59, powered by the San Antonio Spurs' 15 turnovers, the New York Knicks, despite their mediocre outside shooting, ended the suspense of the game.
After the second half began, the New York fans in the arena no longer cared about the on-court situation
The sight of the San Antonio Spurs' bench players with long faces made the fans even happier.
Ultimately, 80-112, the San Antonio Spurs suffered their third consecutive loss.
Pau Gasol performed excellently tonight, playing 31 minutes, shooting 9-for-15 from the field, and 6-for-6 from the free-throw line, tallying 24 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks, and 1 turnover.
After the game, the San Antonio Spurs players left through the tunnel early, while Pau Gasol was especially happy during his interview with a TNT reporter.
When asked about the All-Star starting spot, Pau Gasol was very modest:
"I don't know how many votes I'll get. I just want to enjoy the process."
"You know, I can't play like Lee. I'm a skilled big man, and I probably can't deliver stunning dunks for the fans!"
"If I can get a starting spot, I just want to thank the fans and my teammates for their support!"
On January 29th, the NBA announced the voting results for the 2004 Los Angeles All Star Game:
Clay Lee was once again named the All-Star vote leader with 2.66 million votes.
Despite his injury, Vince Carter still received 2.02 million votes, ranking second.
The five starters for the Eastern Conference All-Star team were:
Clay Lee with 2.66 million votes, Jason Kidd with 1.14 million votes, Vince Carter with 2.02 million votes, Grant Hill with 1.74 million votes, and Pau Gasol with 1.65 million votes.
The five starters for the Western Conference All-Star team were:
Steve Francis with 970,000 votes, Kobe Bryant with 950,000 votes, Kevin Garnett with 1.68 million votes, Tim Duncan with 1.38 million votes, and Yao Ming with 1.48 million votes.
The 76ers' record was poor, and Allen Iverson was injured, currently holding a 19-24 record.
Allen Iverson, who received 980,000 votes, missed out on a starting spot and, seemingly feeling embarrassed, declined interviews with Philadelphia sports media.
Tracy McGrady received 1.02 million votes and also missed out on an All-Star starting spot.
Considering the Magic's poor record, this result was reasonable.
On the 30th, the New York Knicks played an away game against the Celtics.
Before the game, Lee, in an interview, did not dwell much on being the top vote-getter but continued to advocate for his teammate:
"Ron deserves an All-Star spot. I can't think of anyone in the league whose Defense can match his!"
Lee chuckled as he praised him.
In contrast, host Shaquille O'Neal only received 1.45 million votes, losing his starting spot, which led the big guy to complain again before the game against the Timberwolves:
"I don't know why fans aren't voting for me. I'm still the strongest big man in the league!"
"…"
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By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)