NBA: Miracle Workers

Chapter 851 "How Many Championships Do You Have?" (Chapter without Main Character)
On Monday, February 18, 2013, just after the All-Star Weekend, the NBA began reminiscing about the Lakers team that Jerry Buss had assembled.

Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O'Neal, and many other well-known team legends have also spoken out on social media, announcing that the Buss family has entered a new era this year, with Jim Buss officially taking control of the team.

Perhaps because he was largely ignored during All-Star Weekend, Kobe didn't reminisce about the past like his old teammates. The Mamba made a rare statement on Twitter, which sparked a heated discussion:
"The Lakers are too soft right now, they're losing their championship culture, and they should be more demanding of themselves!"

"."

These words were clearly pointed at something. During last night's All-Star Game, Popovich cursed at Dwight Howard when Howard was distracted while giving him instructions.

"Happy Beast" didn't care about this at all. Instead, it took the opportunity to interact with everyone, making the atmosphere incredibly joyful.

Los Angeles media had previously reported that Howard lacked focus, was too casual, and didn't have enough desire to win. Now that Kobe has come out to criticize him, it's clearly a sweeping generalization.

Howard, who was attending a memorial service, immediately responded on Twitter after seeing the post:
"Shut up! Dog!"

Clearly, "Dog" here is not a friendly greeting between black people. Howard directly cursed "old dog," and he had no interest in being pointed at and talked about anymore.

However, some onlookers do agree with Kobe's point of view: the Lakers are plagued by injuries and have a poor record this season, yet they seem quite happy.
Howard's disdain for Kobe dates back to his previous national team career. Back then, the Mamba stunned everyone at 4 a.m., but "The Happy Beast" didn't appreciate it, thinking that the other was just putting on a show.

Related news reports were also unearthed by "kind-hearted" sports commentators. While everyone was anticipating a new round of heated arguments, Iguodala acted as a peacemaker, proactively sharing the news.
"We really didn't do well enough. In the second half of the race, everyone will give it their all, and Dr. Buss will be proud of us."

Fans who saw the post thought the matter was over, but Kobe took the opportunity to write a lengthy post, continuing to offer suggestions to the Lakers.

Finally, Stoudemire couldn't stand it anymore. His back injury had already put him in a bad mood, and now he was being lectured by a washed-up player who wasn't even a Lakers player. Naturally, he was furious.

"How many championships do you have? Don't talk nonsense about our situation if you can't even lead a team!"

"."

On Monday, Lakers legends participated in the discussion, but unfortunately, none of them spoke up for Kobe. Instead, they offered words of comfort to Dwight Howard, who was about to become a free agent.

For the first time since 07, no star players were traded before this year's trade deadline. The biggest names involved in the trades were JJ Redick and Lance Stephenson.

Since the end of last year's Finals, most teams, apart from the Nets and Lakers, have not made any major moves.

Besides not wanting to pay multiple luxury taxes, another reason is Li You's personal form; many team general managers are waiting for a "signal of decline."

-

On Wednesday, February 20th, after losing the All-Star Weekend MVP award, Wade played exceptionally well in his first game back after the break.

That night, the Heat played the Hawks on the road. In the fourth quarter, the Heat scored 40 points to complete a comeback, winning 106-99. The Hawks ultimately couldn't withstand the opponent's surge.

With this victory, the Heat have achieved their ninth consecutive win. At the post-game press conference, Wade was in high spirits and no longer complained about Paul winning the All-Star MVP trophy. He proudly responded to questions about the team's current form:

"This is the best performance we've ever had since we formed the team. I firmly believe that the nine-game winning streak is just the beginning. You know, we really need the home advantage!"

Since losing to the Pacers earlier this month, the Heat have held a players' meeting, in which LeBron James played an important role.

At the players' union annual meeting over the weekend, James, who received Li You's support, also impressed everyone during the process of removing Billy Hunter.

The newly crowned "Chosen One," whose status in the league has risen, was also in good spirits. His years of supporting the GOAT have finally paid off. When asked by a reporter if he could chase the record, he humbly replied again:
"The first weekend of March is a huge test for us. You know, playing at Madison Square Garden is never an easy thing."

"We will not deliberately chase records; health is the most important thing."

Hearing his good friend's words, Wade felt a little unhappy. Although Li You had appointed him as the captain, he wanted to win the last time.

Since LeBron James joined the Heat, Dwyane Wade has yet to win against the Knicks, which makes him nostalgic for the years he played alongside Shaquille O'Neal, when they did win.
As the interview ended and the two left the media room, James seemed to sense Wade's thoughts, tilting his head and whispering:
"Bro, we don't need to chase those records. Without a 30-game winning streak, fans and the media will only remember the Knicks and Lakers' records."

"We don't need to go all out in some games. Second place in the East is actually a pretty good position."

The two had discussed this topic before, and Wade was somewhat speechless upon hearing "health," so he could only shrug and reply:
"Maybe you're right, but I still want to give it a try. The team's chemistry is getting better and better, and you can feel it too."

James nodded but didn't respond further, and Wade also fell silent until the two returned to the bus, where they smiled again, encouraged by their teammates.

During All-Star Weekend, media reporters were already speculating about the gossip surrounding LeBron James's surprise visit to Los Angeles in 2014. Dwyane Wade hoped to hear his good friend's explanation, but James didn't discuss the matter at all.

James typed another message on his phone, continuing to reminisce about his matchups with the Lakers and praising the "friendship" forged between the two teams.

The update had just been posted, and seeing that Jeanie Buss had retweeted it immediately, James's dark expression softened into a smile. He looked up and continued chatting and laughing with his teammates, but his mind was already preoccupied with the future.

"Make preparations for both possibilities in advance."

-

On Thursday the 21st, during a TNT program, O'Neal once again expressed his respect for Jerry Buss, but quickly changed the subject, jokingly adding with a smile:

“My little brother may not realize one thing yet: Stoudemire is just as successful as him, and he really shouldn’t be pointing fingers at this Lakers team.”

"However, I agree with some of Kobe's points. Howard lacks focus, and he does tend to be soft at times."

In the studio, Charles Barkley chuckled. This wasn't the first time they'd criticized Howard; ever since "The Happy Beast" arrived in Los Angeles, he'd become TNT's darling.
"I disagree with you, man. In the NBA, basketball speaks for itself."

"Howard scored 24 points and grabbed 12 rebounds on 10-of-13 shooting last night, leading his team to victory over the Celtics, while Kobe unexpectedly lost to the Timberwolves."

"He went 5-for-15, and Kobe went 1-for-6 in the second half. His shooting percentage was still declining. Under these circumstances, he really has no right to criticize the Lakers."

Kenny Smith felt some sympathy for Kobe. In this era of Excel, the triangle offense has become a "clumsy tactic." However, in this reverse version, Kobe wasn't inefficient:
"Whether Stoudemire admits it or not, Kobe is qualified to comment on the Lakers. Shaq, I believe you will agree with me. The only championship of the new century was won by you two together."

"No, man, 'passengers' really shouldn't be giving their opinions. I love the Lakers, but I won't tell them what to do."

The old shark shook his head and denied it outright. Seeing this, Ernie Johnson grinned and laughed, as did Barkley. Only Kenny Smith looked at the camera with a helpless expression and complained:

"Come on, Bro!"

"Do you think the Heat have a chance to extend their winning streak? After losing to the Pacers, they seem to have solved their rebounding problems."

Ernie Johnson changed the subject with a question, but all three denied it outright, with Barkley even predicting it directly:

"The Knicks will end their winning streak. Lee won't lose at home. The number of subscribers in New York has recently surpassed 30. These people aren't here to witness the Heat's winning streak!"

This year's All-Star Game achieved record-breaking viewership, and MSG's user numbers also exploded once again. The closer Li You's retirement gets, the more the audience wants to witness the "end of a legend."

Shaquille O'Neal agreed with this view, and the old shark, using Li You's data as a springboard, began to speak sarcastically again:
"Perhaps Kobe will miss his efficient performance in the CBA, where he was truly unstoppable."

"There's one thing I need to state: in the CBA, my little brother really showed dominance. McGrady only managed 8 wins in a season, which is an unbelievable performance!"

"."

With the CBA regular season over, the Qingdao team, which won 8 games, naturally missed the playoffs. Recently, there has been a lot of media coverage in the United States, with all the commentators mocking McGrady's poor performance.

That evening, the Spurs faced the Clippers on the road. Popovich didn't rest, and facing a potential opponent, the veteran delivered a powerful blow! Duncan, who only played 9 minutes in the All-Star Game, seemed to have completely recovered from his left knee injury. Griffin and DeAndre Jordan's alternating defense didn't have much effect, and the veteran became more and more courageous as the game progressed.

Still enjoying their vacation, the AMVP completely lost their way at home. Paul's offense was ineffective, and on the defensive end, Parker always found opportunities when faced with pick-and-rolls.

In the first half, Parker scored 17 points on 8-of-12 shooting, easily dominating the opponent alongside Duncan.

The 58-43 double-digit lead caused Los Angeles fans to turn against their own team on the spot. Even now, many locals still support Duncan, believing that the defeat back then was not about being the MVP.

In the second half, the Clippers substituted their starting lineup early. Prince returned to the bench and breathed a sigh of relief. He didn't expect the Spurs to be back this season, having only won once in three meetings.

During garbage time, Matt Barnes and Jamal Crawford scored repeatedly, but Boris Diaw and Matt Bonner responded in turn, and the game quickly lost its suspense.

When the buzzer sounded, the score was 116-96. With this victory, the Spurs improved their record to 44 wins and 11 losses, continuing to lead the Western Conference.

Returning to his old haunts, Duncan, who had previously refused interviews, appeared alongside Sager for the first time, perhaps due to the harmonious locker room and the team's performance meeting expectations in the new season.

"Tim, listen to the support from the fans here! How do you feel now that you're back in Los Angeles?"

Sager asked the question with a smile, and the chants of "MVP" continued. The familiar Staples Center reminded Duncan of his darkest period, and a bitter smile appeared on his face.

"It's complicated, you know. I've been through so much here, and I'm very grateful for everyone's support."

"The Spurs have returned to the top spot in the Western Conference after several seasons, and many fans are curious about your changes. What has happened to the team this season?"

Upon hearing the question, Duncan initially intended to offer some polite words, but after a moment's hesitation, he followed his heart and responded earnestly:

"The arrival of Boris has played a huge role, and George and Kawhi have also made significant progress. Our roster depth has helped the team achieve its current success."

"I know this is not the limit. The Spurs' goal is the championship. Maybe some people will laugh at me for this, but I just want to lift that trophy."

Duncan opened up for the first time this season, and Sager patted the low-key MVP on the shoulder and offered his blessings after the interview.

The enthusiastic Los Angeles fans lining both sides of the player tunnel made Duncan slow down, constantly high-fiving and greeting everyone. Some older fans who had experienced the MVP era were also excitedly shouting:

"Tim, God will bless you, you will win the championship!"

"."

Patting his chest, Duncan silently bid farewell to everyone, and the team staff breathed a sigh of relief, as they were all very worried that the MVP might suddenly develop Yu Yu syndrome.

"We have a chance to win, and we can win."

Duncan kept muttering to himself, his feelings becoming more and more complicated as the season drew to a close. For other players, the Finals might be an honor, but after losing so badly, the series had long become a nightmare.

-

On Thursday, February 28th, during a morning ESPN program, McGrady once again began to talk at length about his China tour.

Regardless of his performance, McGrady was certainly no less popular than Kobe, with every home game drawing huge crowds and even away games seeing tickets in short supply.

"China has the best fans in the world. Elbow? No, I've explained before, my fans have already fought back; they didn't want to see their hero humiliated!"

"If possible, I would like to join a Finals team. I don't crave trophies, but I deserve a ring."

After making a boast during the video call, McGrady started hinting at something, but unfortunately, the Knicks haven't responded yet, which is making the "washed-up second man" a little anxious.
"I did accept the Spurs' request last offseason, and we're still getting to know each other. You know, I've always really admired Popovich's coaching style."

"."

During the show, McGrady's prestige completely vanished. His failure in the CBA made him desperately need a "passenger" ring. If he could match Kobe's championship, his career would be completely fulfilled.

The general public isn't really concerned about this "big star" who can't even play well in the CBA. After mocking him for over a week, people are now more interested in following the "Pacers drama."

Stephenson was very low-key before arriving in Indiana, until Shumpert got injured and he entered the starting lineup and performed well, which energized the championship guard.

That evening, the Pacers hosted the Clippers.

Paul, having regained his form, went on a rampage in the game, driving inside and shooting from the outside, constantly responding strongly, which kept the game close into the fourth quarter.

Stephenson, who went 6-for-7 in the first three quarters, suddenly couldn't touch the ball in the last quarter. Watching Paul George and Danny Granger take turns missing shots, the rookie's face was long.

Ultimately, the score was 99-91, and the Pacers suffered a heartbreaking loss at home.

Stephenson, who started the game, made 7 of 8 shots and scored 16 points with exceptional efficiency. Seeing the smug look on the face of the new core Paul George during the post-game interview, he became even more annoyed.

As the team leader, Danny Granger has spoken about the issue of "succession" more than once since his return from injury, and he is willing to give up his core player position to the rising Paul George.

Back in the locker room, David West kept encouraging everyone, and Danny Granger and Paul George bumped fists and shouted:

"Listen up, guys, we need to play for each other. Our big men are injured, and now is the time to stick together."

Hibbert immediately responded excitedly. Paul George, who went 7-for-18 from the field and 11-for-11 from three-point range that night, also smiled and replied:

"I swear, in the next game, I'll definitely make those damn mid-range shots!"

"Dude, if you can't do that, learn to share the ball. You wasted a win!"

Stephenson suddenly looked up and responded, and the locker room fell silent. Paul George, upon hearing this, lost his smile and immediately leaned over, shouting:
"I believe I can make the next shot! Listen, keep shooting, that's my job!"

"You did a terrible job tonight."

Stephenson immediately responded loudly, and seeing that the two were about to clash, the others quickly separated them. Paul George angrily shouted:

"What right do you have to make demands of me?"

Stephenson, who was pulled back, was not to be outdone. After observing for half a month, he realized that there was no absolute leader in the Pacers' locker room, which was his chance:

"Fuck you! How many championships do you have? Don't question my championship experience!"

"."

When Coach Vogel returned to the locker room, the two had already begun to resolve the issue in a manly way. Stephenson, who had been training in boxing for almost three years, easily overpowered Paul George.

Just as Stephenson was about to unleash a series of attacks, Coach Vogel roared, interrupting the jeering crowd, and glared at the two players, angrily saying:

"What the hell! What are you doing?!"

(End of this chapter)