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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 the evening of May 9, 2006, after the Cavaliers lost, some sports reporters began to question Head Coach Van Gundy's coaching ability.
In the Eastern Conference Semifinals, losing two consecutive away games, while expected, the process was truly unsightly!
As a Champion Coach, the broadcast cameras repeatedly captured Head Coach Van Gundy staring blankly and shaking his head in silence during the game.
If the above situations were merely due to Head Coach Van Gundy's emotional fluctuations, then several critical timeouts being called a beat too late and requiring reminders from assistant coaches truly shocked many reporters.
After trailing by only 3 points at halftime, the Cavaliers suddenly went cold in the second half, ultimately losing by a large margin, and Head Coach Van Gundy took the blame once again!
Leaving aside the tanking in his first year, against the New York Knicks, the Cavaliers had already lost 8 times in the regular season, and including tonight's game, they had lost 6 games in the playoffs.
Since leaving New York, Head Coach Van Gundy had yet to achieve a single victory at Madison Square Garden, a situation somewhat unbefitting a Champion Coach's stature.
93:115. A 16-point performance in a single quarter ultimately left the Cavaliers unable to come back, and the upcoming Game 3 would be a do-or-die battle.
LeBron James and Zydrunas Ilgauskas attended the Cavaliers' press conference.
Facing questions from the media, both of them willingly took the blame:
"I have to play better. The coach shouldn't be blamed. Our Defense loosened up in the second half."
"Basketball games are sometimes like this. We just couldn't get the ball into the basket at specific times. I accept this defeat. It's a reminder to everyone that we must give our all."
LeBron James, dressed in a black suit, spoke calmly.
In the second half, he shot 3-for-10 and scored only 8 points, a performance that was truly inexcusable, which was why he willingly took the blame.
A TNT reporter, not wanting to miss this opportunity, actively questioned Zydrunas Ilgauskas, who was standing nearby:
"We noticed that the Cavaliers continued their first-half defensive strategy until the end of the game, and Head Coach Van Gundy was unable to make adjustments."
"The Cavaliers were like two different teams between the first and second halves. Is this the reason you lost?"
Due to tactical needs, Zydrunas Ilgauskas only played 26 minutes tonight.
He frowned upon hearing the question, but ultimately chose to speak favorably of the coaching staff:
"In the third quarter, we just couldn't make our shots, but everyone adjusted quickly, and in the fourth quarter, we got back on track."
"Head Coach Van Gundy created a detailed game plan for us, but this is the NBA. Even the best plans can have unexpected outcomes. We couldn't limit Clay Lee's explosion."
"We will do better when we return home."
As they spoke formally, LeBron James's face showed little emotion, but doubts began to surface in his mind.
He had indeed lost a bit too much in recent years:
"Is it really the coaching staff's problem?"
In a synchronously played game, the San Antonio Spurs also lost by a large margin, 113:91.
After losing a home game, the Dallas Mavericks had already taken the initiative.
Although Duncan played very efficiently, shooting 8-for-10 from the field and 12-for-14 from the free-throw line to score a game-high 28 points, he seemed powerless against the multi-faceted Dallas Mavericks.
The GDP trio performed well, but a 32:16 deficit during the rotation phase left the San Antonio Spurs unable to climb out of the hole.
Interestingly, after the game, no one criticized the core players.
Popovich, who was being outmaneuvered by the Rookie coach, once again took the blame!
Amidst a chorus of criticism, Duncan, who attended the press conference, uncharacteristically spoke a few more words.
He did not complain but firmly stood by his Head Coach:
"Our Defense wasn't good enough, and some details of the tactics the coach set up weren't executed properly."
"I should have carried the team's offense, but I lost my aggressiveness during the rotation phase."
Sports media in San Antonio had more than once called for the team to strengthen its roster.
The New York Knicks had too many players, and to pursue a championship, relying solely on the starters was far from enough.
"Duncan, is this loss related to our roster depth?"
Duncan, of course, knew what the other party wanted to say, but he maintained his poker face, only emphasizing again:
"I will not interfere with the team's operations. I am just a basketball player. I believe in this team, and we have a common goal!"
"..."
Although these words were firm, the Dallas sports reporters were secretly delighted.
Their roster depth had played its part!
The Dallas Mavericks' tactics were not complicated either.
The starting five took turns in isolation plays, and with players rotating, Stackhouse, from the bench, exploded again, and the game was easily won.
As if letting out a sigh of relief, Mark Cuban, as the Dallas Mavericks prepared to fly back to Dallas, once again spoke to the media:
"Tim Duncan is the most overrated star of the 21st century! We will eliminate him, and Dirk will prove himself this year!"
Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals was in 3 days.
After some mutual praise post-game, Clay Lee quickly returned home to 82nd Street to rest.
The girls who took care of the children had all moved to Peninsula Manor.
Tonight, only Ivanka and Melinda were together in the master bedroom on the 3rd floor, watching gossip from the American Idol show.
Lee, after showering, squeezed onto the large bed and heard the two discussing NBC's Access Hollywood entertainment news program.
He couldn't help but ask curiously:
"Did Billy George W. Bush invite you again? That guy is such a bigmouth!"
To promote the show, Donald had participated in it last year and also made a cameo appearance in the soap opera "Days of Our Lives."
Donald Trump and Billy George W. Bush, who had become popular across the United States through the show in recent years, perhaps shared a common interest, as they flirted with co-host Oddell during the recording.
This former Miss Universe champion was already married, and gossip circulated within NBC.
Tina Fey and her husband had complained to Lee about this matter.
After drinking some red wine, Ivanka snuggled into Lee's arms, giggling.
She was about to welcome another brother, and she seemed to take pleasure in her father's embarrassment:
"He's always like that. Billy George W. Bush wants us on the show. Many people are curious about our current lives."
Scarlett had appeared on several talk shows before going to the film set.
After the movie was finished, no one paid attention, but instead, a lot of people started gossiping about "how many times a day" she would "do it."
The Upper West Side apartment project had already begun construction, and Ivanka and Little Donald had also frequently appeared in the news recently, which further piqued the curiosity of the public.
Melinda, with her blonde hair tied up, was only wearing a black nightgown.
Taking advantage of Ivanka's slight drowsiness, she unbuttoned the other's clothes while changing the subject to subtly extract information:
"Honey, is your father planning to support Jeanine Pirro recently? She seems to have secured the nomination for New York State Attorney General."
Jeanine Pirro had served as a judge in Westchester County and also as a local prosecutor for many years.
As the first female president of the New York State District Attorneys Association, she had considerable prestige.
Donald had business dealings with her husband, and their relationship was quite close.
Ivanka, who had been paying attention to political news over the years, giggled and nodded, then roughly imitated her father's evaluation at home:
"She makes mistakes in her speeches and still wants to run for election? My money would be swept away by a hurricane..."
At last year's Republican Party rally, Jeanine Pirro misplaced the 10th page of her speech and remained silent for 32 seconds.
This incident had become a joke, and Donald clearly did not favor her current campaign.
Melinda also chuckled softly, blinking her big eyes.
With the hint, Lee quickly realized that this year's Attorney General election would most likely be without suspense.
Andrew Cuomo of the Donkey Party would crush the old woman.
New York was becoming increasingly blue, which was not good news for Axe Capital.
Ivanka, revealing her fair skin, quickly embraced Lee and kissed him.
Melinda turned off the television, and rhythmic giggles soon filled the dim room.
Looking at the fully engrossed blonde woman beneath him, Lee kissed Melinda, whose golden hair was spread out, and whispered:
"We have plenty of time tonight."
On May 10th, the NBA announced the 2005-06 Rookie of the Year:
Chris Paul received 124 of 125 first-place votes, winning the award in a dominant fashion!
This was the largest percentage since David Robinson received 100% of the first-place votes in 1989-90.
Although the Charlotte Hornets were somewhat turbulent, with several players involved in trade rumors, the NBA released news that next year's All-Star Game would most likely be held in New Orleans.
This was also a form of support. In response, Chris Paul, holding the trophy in front of the media, once again expressed his gratitude:
"Actually, we had a good season. It was a special experience!"
"We hope to help the people affected by the hurricane rebuild their homes. Thanks to the NBA, and even more thanks to the kind people who donated money."
There were rumors that JR Smith was going to play in New York.
An ESPN reporter quickly asked about this, and Chris Paul had no objection:
"I just heard about this news. JR Smith is very talented, and I will wish him well wherever he goes."
That evening, at the Detroit Pistons' protected home court, 88:92, the Miami Heat regrettably lost.
O'Neal and Wade both performed well.
The former shot 9-for-16, contributing a double-double of 21 points and 12 rebounds.
The latter shot 11-for-20, scoring a game-high 32 points!
However, Wade's 9 turnovers were also one of the reasons for the loss.
O'Neal, who attended the post-game press conference, did not blame his younger teammate but continued to mock with implied meaning:
"Nine turnovers, we don't care about those."
"In fact, Wade is very efficient. Some role players who play around me cannot perform like this. We will succeed, and I am very confident about this series!"
Having secured an away victory, the Miami Heat had completed their mission.
Although they lost, Wade was also in good spirits.
Hearing his older brother's teasing, he immediately responded:
"I don't care about efficiency. I just play according to the coach's requirements. Nine turnovers, I can do better! Shaq carried the team. It's easier to play alongside him!"
The two engaged in some mutual praise, completely disregarding the winning Detroit Pistons.
Pat Riley's motivational talks were very effective.
Long ago, he had instilled a belief in his players:
"In the playoffs, it's about the star power!"
In another Western Conference Semifinals game, the Phoenix Suns seemed to lack star power. 120:94, failing to protect their home court, the Los Angeles Clippers gained the advantage!
Although Sam Cassell had an efficient performance, he was overlooked after the game.
His low attractiveness meant no one paid attention to his performance.
On Thursday, the 11th, the New York Knicks team departed for Cleveland in the morning.
If all went well, they would be home by the 15th to prepare for the Eastern Conference Finals.
ESPN's morning program showed footage of Lee and his teammates boarding the plane.
After a brief rest, everyone had smiles on their faces.
TNT next door did not follow suit with the coverage.
Today, they invited Kobe Bryant.
Not long ago, Charles Barkley criticized Kobe for being too selfish, and this time, the two confronted each other live!
After the afternoon program began, Kobe, wearing a yellow and blue plaid shirt, appeared on the show, and the staff present cheered.
Charles Barkley, thick-skinned enough, did not mind Kobe's fierce gaze.
Instead, he immediately started the show by stirring things up:
"I know you don't like my evaluation, but I never lie to the fans. Compared to Clay Lee, you are a more selfish player."
"It's rare to see you deliver a double-double in a game. More often, your teammates are open, but you force a shot in front of a defender."
"Let's talk about the New York Knicks' Game 2. How would you evaluate Clay Lee's playing style?"
In Game 2, Clay Lee played 37 minutes, shooting 15-for-23 from the field, 2-for-5 from three-point range, and 8-for-9 from the free-throw line, putting up an all-around stat line of 40 points, 7 rebounds, 10 assists, 2 steals, 3 blocks, and 1 turnover.
In the third quarter, he suppressed his opponent on both ends of the court.
The director showed the statistics while also displaying some game footage.
Looking at his "arch-rival's" stats, Kobe pursed his lips, not wanting to comment, but seeing all three looking at him, he reluctantly said:
"It's different. Don't forget Clay Lee is a point guard. He completed his task very well."
"Actually, I'd rather hear you comment on your own performance in the first round. Against the Dallas Mavericks, I actually wished you could be more selfish, but you disappointed the fans again."
Charles Barkley pressed his advantage, starting to dig into Kobe's first-round performance.
The latter immediately became furious upon hearing this and retorted sharply:
"You should have seen it. They constantly double-teamed me with two players. We created many good opportunities, but we couldn't get the ball into the basket."
"The New York Knicks also encountered similar situations, but Gasol, Hill, and Ron Artest all stepped up. That's why they were able to score 120 points."
In Game 2, just as Kobe Bryant had predicted, the New York Knicks' role players performed exceptionally well in the first half, and when Clay Lee faced more double-teams in the fourth quarter, everyone responded promptly.
Before Kobe could continue explaining his basketball philosophy on the show, Kenny Smith suddenly changed the subject and said:
"We've received news that the Lakers will make a big move in the offseason. Can we talk about future trades?"
When the topic of offseason reinforcements came up, Kobe's expression finally improved a bit.
Kevin Garnett was their primary target, but he answered the question calmly:
"I trust Kupchak. He can bring a championship to the Lakers."
Perhaps connecting it to some rumors, Charles Barkley looked at Kobe earnestly and seriously retorted:
"We all know that Clay Lee is involved in every New York Knicks trade. Although I don't like players overstepping their bounds like that, the fact is he always has qualified helpers by his side."
"Kobe, would you make the same choice? This season we've heard many trade rumorsâJason Kidd, Kevin Garnett. Would you specify a helper?"
Ernie Johnson, standing nearby, cleared his throat.
This statement wasn't quite right, as Lee had never specified a player.
Although he had said he liked playing 'brotherly basketball' with Ray Allen, considering they were backcourt partners in college, that statement seemed more like nostalgia for the past.
Kobe hadn't expected Barkley to be so direct.
In this era, only old men would team up, and he was a few months younger than Lee, so he couldn't lose face at the moment.
He said in a low voice, "I don't want to get involved in the general manager's work. You know, I'm just a pure basketball player."
"The team and I have the same goal: we both want to bring a championship to Los Angeles!"
"Phil told me Michael Jordan also went through struggles. I will overcome these difficulties. I won't ask the management to trade for star players. I will grow with the young players as a leader."
He spoke very well, and Kenny Smith nodded along, a smile on his face indicating approval.
The recent New York Knicks trade rumors had made some commentators quite annoyed.
Many did not agree with the idea of 'exporting championship experience' to the NBA, as it was essentially a very utilitarian approach.
Kobe's answer, however, fit the demeanor of old-school players: they just play basketball, grow with their teammates, don't run away, and don't trade teammates when their physical condition declines.
Charles Barkley looked at Kobe's serious expression, and for once, he didn't mock him.
After thinking for a moment, he asked another question, "If the Lakers can never bring you help, would you still stick to this view? You should know that with opponents getting stronger and stronger, you might not be able to win a championship."
Thinking that the New York Knicks would most likely update their roster again, Kobe felt a little upset, but having made such bold statements earlier, he could only continue to boast:
"Basketball is not just about championships. I said a long time ago that I, like the fans in Los Angeles, enjoy the process of chasing a championship more."
"We've lifted the Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy, and now we're experiencing a low point. I will always accompany the team as it grows until we all return to the NBA Finals stage together."
After he finished these impressive words, even the staff in the studio couldn't help but cheer, and Ernie Johnson also nodded with satisfaction, flattering Kobe as he concluded:
"Kobe has earned the respect of everyone in the studio. I believe the fans in Los Angeles will see that day!"
"..."
The trio didn't make things difficult for Kobe anymore; this type of old-school player suited their taste perfectly!
As the show continued, when Kobe heard that Tyson Chandler might go to New York to play, he remained outwardly calm, but his heart ached again:
"Chandler is definitely stronger than that bust, Kwame Brown!"
On the morning of May 12th, the NBA announced the 2005-2006 All-Defensive Teams:
The five players on the All-Defensive First Team were:
Clay Lee, Jason Kidd, Ron Artest, Andrei Kirilenko, and Ben Wallace.
The five players on the All-Defensive Second Team were:
Chauncey Billups, Kobe Bryant, Bruce Bowen, Kevin Garnett, and Tim Duncan.
After the awards were announced, sports media in Denver complained on behalf of the blocks leader, Marcus Camby, while New York believed that Prince and Raja Bell should also be included in the All-Defensive Team.
Although the Cavaliers' highly anticipated Howard did not win an award, LeBron James received the second "MVP" trophy of his career!
Stan McNeal, editor-in-chief of Sports News, announced this year's MVP, with LeBron James narrowly defeating Tim Duncan to win the award:
"In the 28 votes cast, LeBron received 9 first-place votes. This result exceeded our expectations, but his performance earned our respect."
The magazine has been presenting this award since 1958, which is considered a top-tier "media praise award," similar to Sports Illustrated's Athlete of the Year.
Although it wasn't an official award, James still smiled happily as he accepted the trophy.
After the All-Star Game MVP, he had another MVP.
Tomorrow night was a do-or-die game, but this morning, the Cavaliers announced that Larry Hughes would be unable to participate in Game 3 due to family reasons.
After his brother's death, the former steals leader's performance had plummeted, and some Cleveland commentators believed his absence would make the team stronger.
A large number of media flocked to the Cavaliers' training center.
Besides congratulating James on his award, everyone was more concerned about tomorrow night's game:
"LeBron, after two consecutive blowout losses, how will we adjust tomorrow night?"
Thinking of the game strategy formulated by Head Coach Van Gundy, James frowned inwardly, but a confident expression appeared on his face as he continued to praise the Champion Coach:
"Everyone played well in the last game, but we lacked some game experience and failed to allocate our physical energy reasonably."
"Back at home, we will involve more people in the offense, and at the same time, everyone will show stronger Defense. The road games do not represent our true level."
James's popularity was very high, and a group of sports reporters surrounded him, constantly asking questions.
Howard watched enviously, seized the opportunity to sneak over, and loudly showed off:
"The Coach is right, Defense wins championships, and no one in the NBA is better at Defense than us!"
In the recently announced defensive efficiency ratings, among the Cavaliers, only Howard made it into the top 50 in the NBA.
The Rookie was very proud of this and also believed he should have been selected for the All-Defensive Team.
After the Cavaliers finished training in the afternoon, sports media again interviewed Jeff Van Gundy, who had been particularly low-key these past few days.
Perhaps it was the two consecutive blowout losses that made the Champion Coach lose face.
After returning home, Head Coach Van Gundy regained his confidence and showed a confident expression when accepting the interview:
"I regret Dwight's omission! He has extraordinary defensive talent, and many times, he is our defensive core."
After he gave his own All-Defensive Team, the Cleveland sports media asked a question of concern:
"Will we continue to change the lineup after returning home? With Hughes absent, who will come into the starting lineup?"
Damon Jones went 2-for-9 in the last game, and his shooting got worse in the second half, nearly leading Cleveland fans to kick the 'bricklayer' off the team.
"Snow will be responsible for guarding Lee, and we will change our defensive strategy. We will no longer give opponents opportunities for transition offense."
"I understand the New York Knicks. They are the fastest-paced team in the NBA. The coaching staff is prepared for this, and we will test their other players more."
The ESPN reporter was more concerned about how the former Head Coach would comment on the New York Knicks' operations.
Seizing the opportunity, he immediately changed the subject:
"Jeff, you coached in New York for many years. Do you think the New York Knicks will eventually trade Kurt Thomas and other championship players? Will this affect their locker room?"
Head Coach Van Gundy blinked.
In fact, when he was in New York, he couldn't even manage the locker room.
That was Ewing's territory, and he only flattered him.
Later, when Lee took over, he even lost his tactical board and completely became a mascot.
These memories flashed in his mind, and Head Coach Van Gundy quickly controlled his emotions and continued to act like a big shot:
"New York and Cleveland are different. If a trade happens, I won't be surprised."
"This is also why I chose to leave. I prefer the basketball atmosphere here. In Cleveland, what I feel is pure love."
"LeBron is not Lee. He prefers to get along with his teammates, which is why we have been able to reach the Eastern Conference Semifinals for two consecutive seasons."
"Today, seeing LeBron win the award, I feel very gratified. He leads the team in his own way, and there is no doubt that he will bring a championship to his hometown!"
The sports media present all understood Head Coach Van Gundy's implied meaning:
Lee's relationship with his teammates was average, and the New York Knicks would definitely make a trade.
Having received a positive answer, the sports media felt a surge of excitement.
The Cavaliers didn't look like they could win, and this gossip was much more interesting than tomorrow's game.
LeBron James, who was getting along well with his teammates, didn't know that Head Coach Van Gundy had praised him again.
After losing Game 2, he had somewhat seen the true strength of some of his teammates.
The power of example is infinite.
In the training gym, James dribbled the ball, watching Damon Jones, who was still doing extra practice, and secretly calculated who he could trade his "good brother" for:
"He can't even make open three-pointers. The Cavaliers don't have brothers like that!"
On Saturday, the 13th, Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals was about to begin.
Enthusiastic Cleveland fans gathered outside Gund Arena in the afternoon.
Although some fans felt that such a scene seemed familiar, as soon as shouts erupted in the crowd, everyone quickly put the matter out of their minds.
Affected by trade rumors, D'Antoni and the coaching staff had blocked most reporters these past few days.
When they warmed up early in the afternoon, the media, having been cooped up for almost three days, swarmed around Lee.
Having won too much, Lee had rarely spoken out much in recent years, at most predicting a championship or occasionally teasing old rivals.
Sports reporters all wanted to see him make a fool of himself, so to avoid a "boomerang effect," Lee never publicly expressed too many opinions on team affairs.
As soon as Lee finished his warm-up, an ESPN reporter, as the broadcaster, eagerly asked a question:
"Lee, Tyson Chandler and his agent Schwartz have both expressed their desire to come to New York to play! Does this mean you will once again bid farewell to your old teammates?"
The season hadn't even ended, yet these gossip rumors had already begun to spread widely due to the efforts of those with ulterior motives.
A Chicago Tribune reporter even interviewed the person involved immediately.
Unhappy staying with the Chicago Bulls, Chandler not only didn't deny it but smiled like a flower:
"No one can refuse to play with Lee. You know, ever since I entered the NBA, I've longed for a championship!"
Chandler's smiling face had already appeared in Chicago newspapers that morning, and many Chicago Bulls fans vented their dissatisfaction on the internet, with Chandler also being labeled a "traitor."
Looking at the expectant eyes of the crowd, Lee, wearing the New York Knicks' away blue training uniform, chuckled softly:
"There are still a few months until the free agency market opens. That's the new general manager's job. What you should be focusing on is tonight's game!"
"..."
Old Fish, standing nearby, watched Lee, who was surrounded by sports reporters.
As he turned to walk towards the player tunnel, he whispered to Barnes beside him:
"The New York Knicks might be in chaos next season. We should plan ahead!"
Fish's words made Barnes a little suspicious, but his playing time in New York was severely suppressed, so he didn't deny it and joked:
"Go to Los Angeles? The weather there is indeed better."
A Marca reporter from Spain was also interviewing Gasol.
The trade rumors involving big men also made them somewhat sensitive.
However, the people involved, Hill and Kurt Thomas, acted as if nothing was wrong
In the locker room, Gasol even had the mind to make coffee with Diaw.
Although he didn't drink coffee before games, grinding beans was a good pastime.
Hearing the question from the reporter from his hometown, Gasol merely shrugged and responded with a smile,
"This won't affect the team, nor will it affect me. In fact, everyone cares about the championship!"
"Many times, business is business. We just need to focus on playing."
....
By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)