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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 Thursday, September 22, 2005, the NBA officially issued a notice to all teams and mainstream media, confirming the new season's dress code.
Allen Iverson, who was very active during the offseason, immediately expressed his stance to the Philadelphia Daily News:
"This is discrimination. I will not comply with the new rules. I will continue to show my true self in public!"
Besides Iverson, many Black players also spoke out, stating that not allowing them to wear chains was discrimination!
In recent years, hip-hop culture has swept across the NBA.
Regardless of how well they played, everyone dressed more flamboyantly than the last.
However, many other players didn't care about this at all.
After all, everyone usually wore formal attire to work, and basketball was also a job.
The NBA didn't stipulate that the dress code had to be enforced on rest days.
On the TNT show, this matter wasn't even mentioned.
In the early 90s, everyone basically wore formal attire, mainly to break away from stereotypes and to look like a big shot.
As they got older, the trio was more concerned with team movements during the offseason.
The news of Gary Payton joining the Heat made Charles Barkley feel relieved.
In the studio, Barkley eloquently expressed his views on this trade, which can be summarized as:
"Veteran experience can help the Heat!"
In contrast, Kenny Smith was more up-to-date.
In recent years, old-man basketball had long been in decline.
Taking advantage of his partner's pause, he immediately retorted:
"I respect Payton, but the NBA belongs to young people. In my opinion, it will be difficult for him to contribute much to the team."
"If they just want to get a good regular season record, I think this signing is very cost-effective."
"If they want to reach the NBA Finals, then the Heat will face the New York Knicks. Maybe Payton can guard Fisher, but against Lee, his Defense won't have much effect."
Ernie Johnson also didn't think highly of this signing.
He preferred the three-point shooter Damon Jones:
"The Heat failed to re-sign Jones, and the Cavaliers signed this free agent. This is a significant loss for Miami."
"I don't doubt Payton's fighting spirit, but physical decline is inevitable. Perhaps the Heat made the decision for locker room stability."
Charles Barkley heard his two partners' words and was immediately displeased, continuing to preach his theory:
"Payton is very clear about his role on the team. At the end of his career, he understands what kind of role he should play."
"He won't have conflicts with Williams. A group of players eager for a championship gathers together, and the Heat will explode with tremendous energy in the playoffs."
Kenny Smith couldn't say anything harsher and stopped discussing the topic:
"The New York Knicks' 15-man roster has been finalized, and their salary for the new season is as high as $91.14 million."
"After the Dallas Mavericks completed the amnesty, the New York Knicks are currently the highest-paid team in the NBA."
"As they age, not only Clay Lee's big contract but also after re-signing Rookies, their salary will exceed 100 million. I don't know if New York will continue to persist in the next few years."
Without waiting until the end of the new season, the New York Knicks will pay nearly $30 million in luxury tax this season, and it will continue to increase in the future.
If they enjoyed salary bonuses in previous years, then for the next 10 years, high salaries will be the biggest constraint on their path to the championship.
The Dallas Mavericks are an example of a team that couldn't bear it, having to amnesty Michael Finley.
The San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets, and many other teams have been constantly adjusting their rosters during this period to save a few million US dollars in luxury tax.
Regarding the New York Knicks' generous spending, Charles Barkley felt a bit envious but argued stubbornly:
"A huge luxury tax doesn't mean a championship, and God won't always favor the New York Knicks!"
"Along with aging comes injuries, and what I'm more worried about is players losing their motivation to pursue championships."
"For several consecutive offseasons, I haven't seen much news about Lee's diligent training."
"In this regard, many players perform better than him. To my knowledge, Kobe has been honing his body in training camp all summer."
"Gilbert Arenas also trained frantically. These players are clearly more eager for a championship than Clay Lee."
Kenny Smith naturally couldn't refute his partner's words.
The New York Knicks' training camp started very late, and Lee, apart from attending events, spent his time strolling with his girlfriend.
Many sports media outlets reported that Lee would become a father of two children in October.
Considering that life is bigger than basketball, it's understandable that he didn't train during the offseason.
Ernie Johnson didn't participate in this topic.
He just re-introduced the newly received news to the fans:
"The New York Knicks' second-year Rookie, Anderson Anderson Varejão, suffered a torn right shoulder while playing for the Brazil national team."
"Considering that veteran Dikembe Mutombo has already left the team, there's a high probability they won't trade Glen Rice anymore."
Charles Barkley clicked his tongue beside him.
He felt as if he had awakened the ability of a jinx.
The new season hadn't even started, and the New York Knicks already had injuries.
On Friday, the 23rd, the New York Knicks officially confirmed Anderson Varejão's injury, and the medical team also announced the recovery period:
"The surgery was successful, and Anderson Varejão is expected to be out for 4 to 5 months."
New York Knicks fans didn't react much to this news.
Recently, everyone was busy with gossip.
The impact of the hurricane gradually disappeared in New York, and online entertainment was more popular!
Champion Coach Phil Jackson quietly returned to the Los Angeles Lakers to coach Kobe Bryant again.
At the end of August, the Los Angeles Lakers welcomed back their Champion Coach.
With the preseason about to begin, many people were looking forward to the conflict between Kobe and the Kentucky Fried Chicken Old Man.
Last year, in his new book, he repeatedly emphasized that Kobe was "uncoachable."
As a result, in less than a year, the boomerang fell on the Champion Coach himself.
Conflicts between the Head Coach and core players are not new in the NBA.
The conflicts between Doc Rivers and Pierce frequently appeared in Boston newspapers.
Either the player or the coach must compromise.
This time, Phil Jackson proactively showed his goodwill by praising his coach:
"It's all about trust. Many people don't realize that the first time I coached Kobe, we didn't get along well."
"I don't care about basketball differences. Now Kobe is more mature. He has become the true leader of the Los Angeles Lakers!"
"This summer, he has been training hard. After training camp started, he practiced shooting three hours early every time."
"Effort will be rewarded. In the new season, I think Kobe will be the MVP!"
The Kentucky Fried Chicken Old Man praised Kobe profusely, repeatedly emphasizing that Kobe had become a leader during this period.
After the other party showed his goodwill, Kobe no longer dwelled on past events.
When interviewed by the Los Angeles media, he also engaged in some commercial flattery:
"I will never say no to Phil. His return has excited everyone!"
"As for MVP, I like this challenge. I will lead the Los Angeles Lakers back to the NBA Finals."
Kobe, who was being interviewed at the Toyota Training Center, kept wiping sweat from his head as he said these words.
Kobe had been training intensely this offseason.
Reporters from the Los Angeles Times, seeing Kobe's jersey almost soaked with sweat, instinctively encouraged him:
"Kobe, we believe in you. You are a true Los Angeles Laker!"
At the end of September, the spectators were disappointed that they didn't see a 'Mars colliding with Earth' scenario in Los Angeles.
And the New York Knicks' injuries continued, though this time it wasn't a player.
James Dolan was hospitalized.
Not long ago, the curly-haired owner even held a small concert with his band.
Perhaps his recent life was too good, as this time his heart attack was very serious and required bypass surgery.
Over the weekend, Lee visited the unfortunate James Dolan.
The private doctor believed there wasn't much risk with this surgery, but the curly-haired owner was so scared that he lost a whole size.
On Monday, the 26th, the New York Knicks officially started training camp.
With the Good Brother absent, Old Charles came to the Tarrytown Training Center.
Compared to before 2000, the New York Knicks' roster had undergone a major overhaul.
The training facility was surrounded by division champion banners.
Standing courtside, Old Charles seemed to recall the 1998 championship and turned to Lee beside him, saying:
"Honestly, I never thought the New York Knicks would be so successful!"
"Lee, don't worry about the luxury tax. We are prepared. In the next 10 years, the team's investment will only increase."
"I heard that Houston plans to retire. Time really flies."
His face had deeper wrinkles.
Charles had aged a lot in recent years.
As he got older, he always liked to reminisce about the past.
He still remembered Allan Houston.
Ending Michael Jordan's championship run was a sweet memory.
Lee also received the news.
After the Orlando Magic amnestied Allan Houston, this champion guard ultimately chose to retire.
He would return to New York in mid-October to prepare for his retirement ceremony.
In a few days, old teammates would reunite again.
"I can guarantee that for the next 10 years, the New York Knicks will be strong contenders for the championship."
"We are all very saddened by Allan's injury, but I support his decision."
Lee also recalled the "Good Brothers" from back then.
If they hadn't been able to share their championship experience with other teams in time, perhaps the New York Knicks wouldn't have achieved their current success.
The team's equipment manager had retired, and many staff members were also poached with high salaries.
When Lee and Old Charles talked about the past, most of the team's staff couldn't join the conversation, as they hadn't experienced the championship back then.
Around 9 o'clock, the players on the roster gradually appeared in the training facility.
The team was about to undergo physical examinations, and the scene quickly became lively.
Fisher was the happiest.
Payton had finally signed with the Heat, which put him in an exceptionally good mood.
He really didn't want to be on the same team as him again.
Old Fish enthusiastically approached Michael Finley and introduced him:
"This year's athletic trainer has different requirements, so the physical examination is a bit more troublesome. Michael, welcome to the New York Knicks."
Unlike the Dallas Mavericks' training facility, the New York Knicks' facility had more championship banners.
Michael Finley and Fisher hugged in greeting, and while surveying the environment, he quietly asked:
"How is Lee? I mean, is he easy to get along with?"
Old Fish turned to look at Lee, who was chatting with Old Charles on another court.
After a moment of contemplation, he whispered:
"Perhaps he's completely different from what you imagine. Lee doesn't care about everyone's private lives. As long as you're not late and train on time, you'll get playing time."
"In short, Lee never makes things difficult for anyone, but the coaching staff trusts veterans more."
Ron Artest, having completed his physical, was yelling and shouting, "I'm hungry!"
Hill was still sharing injury experiences with Anderson Varejão, who had his right arm in a sling.
The two followed the athletic trainer, constantly exchanging notes.
Barnes was still a mood-maker, but his salary had increased to $3 million over two years, several times more than before.
Raja Bell received a four-year, $19.5 million contract, with this year's salary being $4.5 million.
The two, who came from humble beginnings, smiled brightly and talked non-stop, sharing their vacation experiences.
Although New York's taxes were high, the feeling of hard work paying off still excited them.
For the new season, Prince would soon also sign an early extension with the team, and fellow Rookie Gadzuric welcomed his team option.
Fortunately, Anderson Varejão was injured and Rice was in a slump.
As the team's second center, he would definitely get more playing time in the new season.
When the two talked about their contracts, they both had great expectations.
The New York Knicks' re-signing of veterans this year sent a very good signal to everyone.
Prince and Gadzuric also hoped to earn more money.
Gadzuric, who had grown a beard, saw Kurt Thomas undergoing his physical.
After observing him, he whispered:
"Kurt seems to have gained some weight. It looks like he hasn't been training intensely this offseason."
Prince had already secretly surveyed the area.
Except for Gasol and Diaw, who had not yet returned to Manhattan, most players were in good shape.
As fellow Rookies, the two had a good relationship within the team.
Prince quietly reminded him:
"Maybe you'll have a chance to enter the starting lineup next season! You know, everyone has been heavily utilized these past few years."
Every year, the team would buy injury insurance for its players.
Lee, Gasol, and Thomas were all key players to watch.
Few players could maintain a perfect attendance record like Karl Malone.
New York Knicks players played many more games each year, and injuries were almost inevitable.
If their regular season performance was good enough, the two with team options could get contracts early.
A max contract was unlikely, but the New York Knicks would not be stingy.
David Lee was almost late.
He rented a house in Manhattan, which was a drive from the Tarrytown Training Center.
He left late today and was almost driven crazy by New York's traffic.
As the last to complete his physical, David Lee hadn't even had time to greet everyone when Ron Artest loudly yelled again:
"Anderson is injured, so the task of carrying bags for the new season is all yours."
"Enjoy it, David. You should thank our equipment manager. At least now when you stay in hotels, you don't have to help distribute jerseys anymore."
"Don't forget to run errands on road trips. I don't like chocolate, so call ahead and ask about everyone's preferences."
During the Summer League, David Lee was considered a star player on the team, but once he arrived at the official training camp, he became the errand boy.
This was also part of the New York Knicks' locker room culture.
Rookies had to do these tasks for two years.
Kurt Thomas saw the Rookie looking a bit timid, so he smiled kindly and went forward to comfort him:
"This is our chance to bond, David. You have to cherish your Rookie time."
"You should be glad that no one on this team will make things difficult for a Rookie. You know, it wasn't like this before."
David Lee, with his curly short hair, let out a dry laugh and patted his chest, assuring everyone:
"Guys, don't be polite with me. Just tell me if you need anything."
"..."
Around 11 o'clock, D'Antoni and Lee appeared together before everyone.
Mike D'Antoni's "Laws of Victory" entered the top 10 on The New York Times' bestseller list.
Throughout the offseason, he not only frequently appeared on television shows in the United States but also took a trip to Italy to promote it.
It was said that many people who wanted to pursue coaching careers would buy a copy.
Lee also read the book's content.
Aside from some introductions to tactical highlights, it felt like reading motivational videos.
"Everyone performed very well in the physical tests. For the new season, we welcome a new athletic trainer."
"Heinz has rich experience, remember to communicate more with him. This will make your bodies healthier."
"We will face more challenges in the new season. You've all seen the Heat's movements."
"After returning to the United States, I saw news about them almost every day. The Cavaliers also made reinforcements, and we cannot underestimate our old rivals, the Nets and the Detroit Pistons."
"Michael Finley, our new force, I don't need to introduce him, an All-Star level forward. In the preseason, I hope to see everyone united."
"..."
D'Antoni was very happy, delivering a long speech of chicken soup.
During lunchtime, Lee also re-introduced the team environment to the two newly joined players:
"Sometimes, the New York Knicks' tactics are no different from Don Nelson Head Coach's."
"We rely on the perimeter, and our interior players also need to be smart. Mismatch offense is the core of our tactics."
In the bench lineup, Raja Bell and Prince were strong contenders, and even Diaw could swing to the small forward position.
Theoretically, there were more players who could play in the new season, and Michael Finley felt some pressure upon hearing Clay Lee's introduction.
A smile appeared on his dark face. Finley, as a past All-Star, was still quite confident:
"When I was with the Dallas Mavericks, we would also analyze tactics in film sessions. I even bought the coach's new book. In the new season, I can help the team."
Today, the Tarrytown Training Center's chef also became busy.
The team's dietary plan was modified at the request of athletic trainer Heinz and the medical team.
After David Lee got his food and returned to the table, he saw Lee eating meat heartily and immediately felt that what the media had reported was false:
"What about the promised dietary restrictions..."
...
The preseason was about to begin.
Chinese fans also saw the news of Yao Ming's successful contract extension with the Houston Rockets at the end of September.
Across the ocean, there wasn't much basketball news about Clay Lee.
Instead, those who followed Manchester United could see reposted news.
Sina Sports, based on a report from The Sun, then popularized Lee's rumored girlfriend.
The news of Nike offering a lifetime contract didn't cause much stir.
The version update here hadn't kept up with the United States, and fans didn't care much about these things.
The hottest news recently was Allen Iverson's defiance of the dress code, Kobe and Phil Jackson's reconciliation, and the Houston Rockets acquiring "strong" rotation players.
Due to Tracy McGrady's surging popularity in China, many fans were still reminiscing about "13 points in 35 seconds."
Therefore, in the new season, sports media reported more on this former "second man."
The preseason was set to begin on October 7th.
Chinese Houston Rockets fans were eager to witness their home team's performance, but on the 29th, they saw injury news instead:
"Knee, quadriceps, hip? Tracy McGrady is likely to miss all of the preseason."
Tracy McGrady's injury was followed quickly by news that Allen Iverson would also miss the preseason due to a sore knee.
Coupled with Lee having to accompany his girlfriend to give birth in October, many fans were disappointed for a time.
At the end of August, Tracy McGrady's China tour attracted a large number of fans.
Two days prior, Allen Iverson and Yao Ming had also attended a Reebok event together.
The games they had been anticipating for months were gone, and everyone could only wait for the regular season to start in November.
Although Allen Iverson would not play in the preseason, he remained very active after returning to Philadelphia.
Perhaps it was because he hadn't made the playoffs in recent years that Allen Iverson had regained his confidence.
Stephen A. Smith's show had resolved his inner conflict.
As the preseason was about to begin, Allen Iverson wrote a letter to Philadelphia fans.
The Philadelphia Daily News reported this touching letter on the weekend.
In summary, it said:
"The 76ers will set sail again. Please believe in me. I will lead the team to win the NBA Finals."
Philadelphia fans, who had been quiet for several years, became excited again.
This was the Allen Iverson they remembered, the one who never gave up.
Back in Greenwich, Lee had been holed up in Peninsula Manor for the past few days, taking care of the two women nearing their due dates.
Every day, besides sunbathing, he would follow energy-related news on his computer.
He had to cash in before natural gas prices fell.
In his study, Lee occasionally brought up his talent panel:
Speed: 97
One talent, only a slight increase.
Thinking of his active old rivals recently, Lee felt it was enough:
"It's time for them to team up!"
...
By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)