On January 2nd, 2008, the NBA announced its Players of the Month for December:
Dwight Howard from the Eastern Conference and Chris Paul from the Western Conference received the award for the first time in their careers.
On the Cavaliers, most critics were more concerned with LeBron James's performance, and due to his limited tactical role, Howard only successfully showcased himself this year.
It has been difficult for Hornets players to win awards in recent years, for a simple reason: they have had more losses than wins.
Although Kurt Thomas's arrival brought rich championship experience to the team, the core point guard was key to Head Coach Byron Scott's tactical system.
Chris Paul lived up to his coach's trust, demonstrating immense talent in organizing the team while also maintaining his scoring, ultimately reaping the rewards this season.
In December, the Cavaliers achieved an 11-5 record thanks to Howard's excellent performance, averaging 21.7 points, 16.1 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.1 steals, 2.9 blocks, and 3.7 turnovers per game.
With a field goal percentage of 59.8% and a free throw percentage of 58.3%, and averaging 11.9 shots per game, Howard almost delivered "franchise player numbers."
The Hornets went 9-5 in December, with Chris Paul averaging 24.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 10.4 assists, 3.0 steals, 0.1 blocks, and 2.2 turnovers per game.
Playing an average of 39.2 minutes per game, he had a field goal percentage of 48.1%, a three-point percentage of 38.5%, and a free throw percentage of 86.9%.
While these efficient statistics still lagged behind Clay Lee's, the Rookie's performance was recognized.
Compared to Wade, Paul was more like Lee, with a promising future!
When the Hornets flew to Los Angeles for an away game that day, the award-winning Paul was beaming, but he appeared very humble when interviewed in the locker room:
"Winning Player of the Month is an encouragement for me. I'm very satisfied with myself, but when I saw the stats, I realized the gap in strength."
"Lee's stats are better. He has elevated the role of a guard to another level, and some statistics don't even reflect his true strength."
"Kurt has helped me a lot. He brought championship experience to New Orleans. This season we just returned here, and the experience of veterans is very important."
"You know, Kurt fought for many years in New York. He is one of the players in the NBA who understands Lee the most. With his help, I can further realize my talent."
While a certain former MVP was fed up with championship experience, even getting into a fight with his teammates over it, Chris Paul enjoyed communicating with veterans.
Some small pick-and-roll tricks were taught to him by Kurt.
When the baby-faced Paul said these words, he showed a sincere smile, which greatly pleased Kurt Thomas.
The veteran was actually doing quite well here.
Although injuries had taken away some of his explosiveness, his physique hadn't changed much, and relying on his rich game experience, he could still contribute to the team.
"Chris might become the next Lee in the future. I don't like what critics say about him; deficiencies in raw talent can be compensated for by teammates' help."
"I'm glad to be able to help him at the end of my career. I want to establish a championship culture here."
Kurt Thomas, whose beard had grown a bit thicker, also chimed in from the side.
Anderson Varejão, who had secured his spot on the bench by "eating cakes" (receiving easy passes for scores), had also earned a contract and now joined in the praise:
"Chris reminds me of Lee. His technical style has been influenced, but I don't think that's a bad thing. We have a chance to return to the playoffs this year, thanks to his performance!"
"..."
Besides having a good personal relationship, Chris Paul always liked to talk about Lee, also because it could attract more fan votes.
After a long period of accumulation, Lee had gained a large number of loyal fans.
In annual voting, anyone who had a bad relationship with their idol would be boycotted, and the "fan culture" trend had become increasingly severe in recent years.
This year, Kevin Garnett was the unlucky one.
Since the beginning of the season, a large number of fans had been attacking the "traitor" on Reddit, urging people not to vote for Kevin Garnett.
A Rookie like Paul normally wouldn't have a chance to compete with established stars, but the power of "family" was infinite.
In the second round of voting, the Rookie already showed a tendency to surpass Allen Iverson.
The thought of having a chance to squeeze into the All-Star starting lineup filled Paul with excitement.
He just wanted to prove that he was no less than Deron Williams.
He had to seize this opportunity!
In that night's game, 95-81, the Hornets secured the victory early, taking another road win.
Paul contributed several impressive one-on-one plays against Zach Randolph, leaving a deep impression on Los Angeles fans.
At the end of the game, some people in the arena even shouted for Paul to come play in Los Angeles, but he smiled and declined when interviewed:
"Whether it's Oklahoma City or New Orleans, the fans support me unconditionally. I will always stay with the team!"
"I want to play for one team my entire career, like Clay Lee."
On Thursday, January 3rd, Lee's large house in Manhattan became empty early in the morning.
The girls went to work on time, and the succubi returned to Greenwich to enjoy their manor life.
Compared to bustling Manhattan, the air there might be better, and it could be considered a children's paradise.
When Lee appeared in the dining room, the butler had already prepared breakfast.
Katheryn, wearing a bathrobe, had a rosy complexion.
After being embraced at the table, she chuckled softly before turning her head to give him a kiss.
After completely declining the invitation from the "Law & Order" crew, Katheryn had been staying here since returning from Canada.
She had visibly plumped up, and her complexion had also improved.
Noticing the changes in her body, Lee sat down beside her, took the New York Post, and seeing a report on it praising Katheryn's winter attire, he couldn't help but tease:
"I hope readers aren't jealous of me. You're even more beautiful now than in the photo."
Katheryn rolled her eyes at Lee beside her.
Thinking about how they hadn't used protection recently and had unlocked more new knowledge, the 30-year-old Katheryn couldn't help but blush slightly, then pointed to the news on the newspaper and reminded him:
"Haven't you always been following the governor's reports? There's one today."
An article attacked Spitzer for staying in New York, arguing that the governor should remain in Albany.
The report also interviewed the attorney general, who expressed to the public the idea that "work is most important."
What seemed like an ordinary report, however, showed different signs.
Many details focused on the governor's luxurious mansion on Fifth Avenue, and incidentally mentioned that the developer of this high-end apartment was the governor's father.
When Wall Street was facing problems, Spitzer was living a wealthy life.
The New York Post knew very well how the public would react upon seeing this.
Lee nodded slightly, seeing this as a positive sign.
He didn't trust polls, but media trends could reveal clues.
As long as he seized the opportunity to give a push, Axe Capital would then be able to completely escape the other party's entanglement and develop steadily for a few more years.
"I like this article. I should meet this columnist if I get the chance!"
Noticing that the girl beside him seemed to have a poor appetite, Lee re-embraced Katheryn, staring into her blue eyes and whispering:
"How about I accompany you for a check-up this morning? I think there might be a surprise."
As if thinking of the extremely intense matchups these past few days, the blonde girl elbowed Lee playfully, then tilted her head and whispered,
"Next time, we'll go back to Canada together."
The whispered breath made the smile on Lee's face widen.
The blonde girl, who was kissed again, struggled twice but no longer resistedHaving known each other for many years, their passion had not diminished, and their relationship had officially taken a step forward.
On Thursday, there were only three games, and TNT focused on hyping up the San Antonio Spurs vs. Denver Nuggets game.
The result surprised the commentators: Tim Duncan was in a slump, and they unfortunately lost.
77:80. The score alone showed this was a defensive battle, with both teams rarely shooting from beyond the arc, going against the trend.
Pepsi Center erupted completely. In the final moments, Kenyon Martin's block and Allen Iverson's free throws helped secure the win for the team.
For Denver fans, it was a perfect night!
Allen Iverson, who played 45 minutes, was still full of energy.
At this moment, he placed his right hand to his ear, tilted his head, and walked to the sideline, striking a listening pose.
Unfortunately, there were no MVP chants.
In fact, many fans felt Allen Iverson's act was a "poor imitation."
With a 21-9 record, the San Antonio Spurs were still in the lead after the loss, but Duncan, exiting the Pepsi Center, was in a bad mood. Fans on both sides were mocking him:
"Hurry to Los Angeles!"
"You're the biggest 'softie' in the NBA! Overrated Fucker!"
...
Duncan walked towards the player tunnel with his head down, offering no response.
He was loyal to the team, but the San Antonio Spurs' return to him was filling the salary cap, with no active reinforcements each year.
Pursuing a championship at the end of his career could still bring young talent to the team.
Although Duncan felt he hadn't let San Antonio down, the shouts still hurt him:
"Fuck!"
After returning to the locker room, Duncan cursed under his breath and buried his face in his hands, not looking at his teammates.
He seemed utterly dejected.
On the other side, Allen Iverson, who had been showing off, stood with his hands on his hips, giving an interview.
It was a rare victory, and the faded "Son of Philadelphia" once again expressed his loyalty to the fans:
"The fans here on site motivated us. This was a perfect victory!"
"I said a long time ago that basketball isn't just about championships. Maybe you think sometimes the NBA is a business, but in this environment, I also want to show my loyal side."
"I am loyal to my fans, loyal to my city! After coming to Denver, I never thought of leaving. I hope to pursue a championship here again!"
Shaking his head and rapping rhythmically, Allen Iverson's statement delighted the Denver Post reporter.
This was the NBA they had been waiting for.
On January 4th, when the Knicks flew to San Antonio, the local newspaper's sports section was filled with "wailing."
Although some media outlets revealed that Duncan's departure would bring Andrew Bynum and others back to the San Antonio Spurs, San Antonio fans still hoped Duncan would stay with the team.
They needed a strong leader.
At breakfast, Rajon Rondo frowned slightly as he read the newspaper.
The atmosphere in the NBA was getting worse and worse.
Even a veteran "superstar" like Tim Duncan was forming super teams.
Ever since Chris Paul won Player of the Month, Rajon Rondo had been unhappy.
The New York Media always favored this small guard, with some even shouting for Chris Paul to come play in New York in the future.
If you only look at the stats, Rajon Rondo simply couldn't compare to him.
As long as Mike D'Antoni "increased the intensity" on Lee, the Rookie's playing time would be compressed.
Rookie players did not have a good experience playing in New York.
Thaddeus Young had no chance to start and couldn't even see a "breakthrough day" for several years to come.
On the contrary, second-round picks and undrafted players had a full experience, able to train with the team and receive a contract that, while not high-paying, was guaranteed.
After some refinement and steady improvement, they might even get a chance in the offseason.
JR Smith, who greeted everyone he saw, had a warm smile on his face.
He was returning from injury tonight, and the trade rumors had made him especially humble.
Last year, he looked down on Rookies, but now he had to say a few good words.
Leaning next to Rajon Rondo, JR Smith sat down and said enthusiastically:
"Hey, Bro! You are the best player among the Rookies in recent years. Chris Paul just got favored by the media!"
"You know, man, I gotta perform tonight. The coaching staff lacks trust in me right now. Family has to help each other."
Rajon Rondo had a feeling of "what goes around comes around."
Last year, he was just a Rookie carrying bags, and now the "Big Brother" had to ask him for help.
A sense of satisfaction welled up in his heart.
He nodded slightly and said with reserve:
"As long as we play according to the tactics, I'll find you!"
Seeing the Rookie's demeanor, JR Smith felt a bit annoyed, but the game was more important, so he forced a smile and continued to say good things.
The news in the newspaper clearly revealed Duncan's departure, indicating that the trade had entered its countdown.
Pau Gasol also didn't expect his old rival to embark on such a "difficult path":
"It's incredible. I thought he would always stay with the San Antonio Spurs. It's said that Gregg Popovich and Tim Duncan have a very good relationship!"
Chandler didn't feel much after hearing his teammate's words.
Having faced him once in the Finals, he saw a struggling Duncan, and his last bit of respect for him vanished with the trade:
"He might lose his All-Star starting spot. In the second round of voting, Dirk Nowitzki is leading. Fans like the German's loyalty."
Speaking of next month's All-Star Game, Chandler was excited.
This time, he wouldn't be a spectator.
Although a starting spot was unlikely, his chances of being a reserve were very high.
If selected, it would be the peak of his career.
Raja Bell also saw that article, but he wasn't interested.
With his playing style, it was hard for him to be selected for the All-Star.
At this moment, he tilted his head and said sourly:
"I thought Dirk Nowitzki's popularity would suffer after losing the Finals, but Tim Duncan gave him a hand. He's a lucky guy!"
"It's hard for them to succeed. They'll only have half a season to gel. This choice is stupid."
Hearing his friend's sour remarks, Diaw also added indifferently.
Tayshaun Prince, usually a man of few words, suddenly interjected, getting to the core of the issue:
"Staying with the San Antonio Spurs, he doesn't have many opportunities either. Most likely, it would just be another wasted year."
"I sympathize with Tim Duncan. This is an extremely courageous choice."
Ron Artest had no sympathy.
He just wanted to perform well tonight.
He had no good feelings for the San Antonio Spurs.
While eating a muffin, he didn't forget to mock with a wide grin:
"Sympathy? I'm not interested in sympathizing with him. Tim Duncan is the next clown!"
"Go ask Vince Carter. That guy still hasn't forgiven Bruce Bowen. If the NBA hadn't implemented regulations, the San Antonio Spurs wouldn't have restricted their special Defense."
"If the Lakers can make it to the Finals, I'll definitely crush that guy and Kobe. Two clowns together will definitely end in a ridiculous spectacle."
As if seeing his opponent cry on the court, Ron Artest was in high spirits, wishing he could play a game right now.
Losing to the Lakers back then had left him unable to move on, and he just wanted to prove himself again.
David Lee and a few others in the hype squad were also discussing in low voices.
After clearing out the internal traitors, whether the Lakers would break through had become a recent hot topic.
Lee and several members of the coaching staff sat together.
Mike D'Antoni was also paying attention to the opponent's movements, but once the trade happened, it would be difficult for him to predict what kind of chemistry the Lakers would develop.
"So, Lee, do you think Duncan has a chance to return to the Finals? The Triangle Offense, everyone's talking about it again recently."
Renowned Champion Coaches all have their own tactical systems, and Mike D'Antoni is no exception.
He has infinitely elevated the capabilities of the core point guard, leading some commentators to dub it "Give the Ball to Clay Lee."
He was unfazed by the outside criticism.
In fact, in several interviews, he openly stated that the New York Knicks' most core tactic was exactly what they said, which left many commentators dumbfounded.
"I like guarding Derek. If they choose to switch, I don't mind accepting the challenge."
"Times have long changed. Three points are one more than two points. In games that depend on matchups, it's hard for any team to trouble us."
Lee said this unhurriedly, which made Head Coach nod repeatedly.
Assistant Coach Mike Malone remembered his job and was speechless for a moment.
The wins and losses depended entirely on the "Big Leg," making it hard for him not to have illusions.
Recalling the invitations he had received, Mike Malone couldn't help but change his mind again:
"Without players who carry dreams, I should stay here forever."
"."
For the game at 7:30 PM that night, a large number of San Antonio Spurs fans held up white boards with "Stay" written on them, shouting Duncan's name from time to time.
Due to playing back-to-back, Gregg Popovich still "saved" him as usual.
When Duncan's condition was off and his emotions were problematic, he ultimately chose to "rest for the game."
Facing the interior combination of Robert Horry and Fabricio Oberto, an excited Chandler frequently grabbed offensive rebounds, once again proving his strength to the fans.
The San Antonio Spurs only scored 41 points in the first half, and the game lost its suspense early.
Ultimately, 124:85, the San Antonio Spurs happily secured their second consecutive loss, losing again in a back-to-back game.
He didn't politely greet them as usual.
Perhaps Duncan also felt that abandoning his city was not a glorious thing.
The former MVP left the player tunnel early.
JR Smith was not in the mood to pay attention to the San Antonio Spurs' plight.
He loved playing with the lead. In his first game back from injury, he scored 19 points on 6-of-11 shooting, 4-of-7 from beyond the arc, and 3-of-4 from the free-throw line!
Lee never stinted on praise for teammates in good form.
After the game, he actively hugged JR Smith and encouraged him as they walked towards the player tunnel:
"Good job, buddy! Keep this up, and you'll have a chance to win the Sixth Man of the Year trophy!"
"If you feel good, you can actively ask for the ball, but if you miss, remember to play hard on Defense. You know, the Head Coach likes players who give their all every game."
His shoulder was patted twice, and JR Smith bent over with joy, a fawning smile reappearing on his face as he readily agreed:
"I know, I promise to kill those fuckers. We are family, I want to play in New York."
Rajon Rondo, who was behind, silently curled his lips at this scene.
There were too many sycophants on the team.
As long as Lee showed favor, everyone would "lick hard."
He had a mediocre performance in tonight's game.
In fact, dishing out 8 assists was already very good, but thinking of the New York Media's comments, Rajon Rondo still felt a bit annoyed:
"Idiots who only watch highlights!"
Muttering a curse to himself, Rajon Rondo felt much better.
JR Smith was more popular in New York than him, not because his performance was better, but because his highlights were more entertaining.
On Saturday, January 5th, the New York Knicks continued their road trip, flying to Houston to complete their back-to-back road games.
The Houston Rockets started the new season like a tiger, but with Tracy McGrady's re-injury, their record began to slide, falling to 16-17 and out of the top half of the standings.
In that night's game, despite playing back-to-back, the New York Knicks were in better form and quickly gained an advantage against the Houston Rockets, who were missing Tracy McGrady.
Rafer Alston was 1-for-6 in the first half, scoring 2 points, and the Houston Rockets were 1-for-10 from beyond the arc, which made Head Coach Adelman frown deeply.
Absolute height was already outdated in the NBA.
Although Yao Ming had lost some weight, defending pick-and-rolls was still a disaster.
The Houston Rockets' coaching staff had no solution for this.
At 118:83, by the end of the game, many fans had already left the Toyota Center.
Tracy McGrady, dressed in a suit, looked furious, as if they should have won this game.
Dikembe Mutombo, however, did not have the same emotions as his teammates.
The veteran had already shared his championship experience.
He had done his best.
As for the poor record, that was the core players' problem.
In two consecutive road games, Lee dished out 13 assists, and Chandler ate well.
His excellent performance could help him make it into this year's All-Star reserve roster.
Tracy McGrady, who was being interviewed, looked unhappy.
Allen Iverson's "loyalty" had paid off, as he surpassed him in the second phase of fan voting.
What made it even more unacceptable for him was that even Chris Paul was slightly ahead of him.
Faced with this situation, Tracy McGrady finally pointed the finger at Tim Duncan, saying in a sleepy, sarcastic tone:
"In the past, we were all loyal to our teams. This was an unwritten rule in the NBA. You had to carry your own territory."
"The changes in the NBA now are beyond my comprehension. I don't know why I'm ranked fourth. If I were healthy, I'd be capable of averaging 30 points per game, but fans seem to have forgotten that."
"I don't like this situation. Everyone is voting based on emotion. The All-Star Game shouldn't be like this!"
The ESPN reporter clearly looked down on the outdated "second person" who liked "IF."
As soon as he finished speaking, he immediately asked:
"Given their current performance, if the Houston Rockets secure a playoff spot, will they be able to get past the first round?"
Tracy McGrady's anger flared even more.
"The referees have issues, the roster depth is poor, injuries ruin teams."
Hearing these excuses, the locker room was instantly filled with a joyful atmosphere.
On Thursday, January 10th, after a brief rest, the New York Knicks first easily defeated the Chicago Bulls on the road, then followed up with another big win against the Houston Rockets in a back-to-back game.
The undefeated streak in the new year was overshadowed that day by more concrete trade rumors.
On TNT's program that night, the Los Angeles Lakers' bargaining chips were revealed:
"Kwame Brown, Andrew Bynum, Mark Gasol, two first-round draft picks."
Although not yet confirmed, according to internal sources, this trade will be completed around February 1st, and the Los Angeles Lakers have also received Duncan's renewal reply.
In the studio, as Kenny Smith seriously announced the relevant news, Charles Barkley on the other side kept shaking his head.
As soon as his partner finished speaking, he immediately yelled at the camera:
"Los Angeles robbed San Antonio! They stole the MVP right in front of San Antonio Spurs fans!"
"."
Ernie Johnson, sitting in the center, also felt that the NBA had become absurd.
However, thinking of the San Antonio Spurs' operations over the years, he did not comment on the show but couldn't help but sigh in his heart:
"Perhaps this is the reward for loyalty."
.....
By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)