On January 10th, the All-Star paper ballot channel was about to close. Although Durant didn't believe he could make a comeback in the third phase and surpass Anthony in votes, he still felt a bit restless facing the impending announcement of the third phase's voting results.
This was his first time being selected for the All-Star, and clearly Durant still held a glimmer of hope, expecting to reverse his fortunes and make it as a starter.
"Alright, Kevin, the voting data won't be out until the day after tomorrow. There's no need to be so nervous. Don't worry, you'll definitely be an All-Star this year. Starting isn't important; what's important is that you're already an All-Star player. This will make contract negotiations much easier for us."
His agent, Kleiman, noticed Durant's agitation over the past two days and couldn't help but offer a gentle word of comfort.
"I know, I know! But I just want a starting spot, fuck! We're the Western Conference's number one right now, we're the best team in the West, so why should Anthony get to start?!"
The thought of being a substitute and only being able to coast during the All-Star Game immediately filled Durant with frustration.
"You're only a third-year player. This is a necessary process; every young player goes through this. Look at Chris Paul; the first time he was an All-Star, he led his team to a great record, but he was still a backup guard."
"Kevin, there's no need to care about a starting spot. We have more important things to do. Perhaps we can start considering your chances of winning the MVP this season. You've already made it onto the MVP candidate list."
His agent, Kleiman, wasn't here to listen to Durant complain. He genuinely wanted Durant to win the MVP. This would help him secure better contract terms for Durant in the offseason, and that was all about the greenbacks!
"Uh, I've seen some media reports, but honestly, in the West, there's Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash, Dirk Nowitzki, Tim Duncan. In the East, there's LeBron James, Paul Pierce, Dwight Howard, Dwyane Wade."
"Looking at that list, I don't think I can compete with those old guys. You know, after all, I'm not the face of the NBA, at most I just get some star treatment. Those guys above have been fighting in the NBA for many years."
Durant hadn't inflated his ego to the point of ignoring the NBA's veteran superstars. He felt that making it to the All-Star Game this season would be mission accomplished.
"No, no, no, Kevin, don't underestimate yourself. The Thunder are not only first in the West, but also first in the NBA. You still maintain a winning advantage. Believe me, we just need to create some buzz, and you can definitely climb to the top few spots on the list."
"Think about it, Kevin, if you win the regular season MVP, the scoring title, and make the All-Star team this season, I guarantee you'll not only sign a max contract but also get more bonus clauses."
"Most importantly, we might even sign a big shoe contract."
His agent, Kleiman, felt the greenbacks practically flying at him just thinking about Durant signing a big contract. He grew more and more excited, even starting to gesticulate wildly.
"Wow! What you're saying really tempts me, but a lot of media actually don't like me, and the NBA might not like a young player winning MVP!"
Durant imagined if he really won so many awards, he would definitely be on top of the world. He would become the face of the NBA, and LeBron James would have to step aside.
"You underestimate the NBA, Kevin. People love to see underdog stories. The Thunder, who won 23 games last season, are having an excellent season this year. We just need to emphasize how hard you've worked, and you'll be loved by many fans."
"You need a story, Kevin, leave that to me. Maintain your competitive form, and handle your relationship with Kayce well. You need his help. Think long-term. If you really win the MVP, you'll be the undisputed core leader of the team!"
His agent, Kleiman, patted Durant on the shoulder, presenting him with a grand vision that left Durant feeling a bit dazed.
"MVP? Maybe I really can win this award."
Durant leaned back on the sofa, muttering to himself. The thought of receiving the award made him feel a rush of excitement. He wanted all the glory and all the money!
On the afternoon of January 9th, the Thunder only had a simple tactical training session. After two days of ample rest, everyone was full of energy and had fully recovered.
"Russell, don't you think Kevin is acting really strange today? He's being overly nice to Kayce!"
Even though Jeff Green had a shoulder injury, he still came to team practice every day. Seeing Durant's 180-degree change in attitude today, he couldn't help but complain to Russell next to him with a strange expression.
"Nothing strange, Bro, everyone likes Kayce. Everyone always favors him. Kevin might just be impressed by Kayce's skills, you know, Kayce is a genius player."
The thick-headed Russell didn't notice anything unusual about Durant.
"Whoa! Kevin, today you're like Nina's cupcakes, sweet and delicious, you need to be tougher!"
After playing a few rounds of 1-on-1, Kayce felt that Durant's defense wasn't putting in enough effort, so he couldn't help but quip.
"Shit! You asked me to beat you! I was going to go easy on you to make you happy, but it seems there's no need for that now!"
Durant was still thinking about what his agent, Kleiman, had said, wanting to have a friendly sparring match with Kayce. He didn't expect to actually get dominated in a moment of carelessness, which made him feel a bit embarrassed.
An enraged Durant unleashed his full power, immediately forgetting what his agent, Kleiman, had told him. While trash-talking, he continued his back-and-forth 1-on-1 with Kayce.
"See? Nothing different, guys, this is how genius players get along. Too bad I'm not tall enough; it's hard to defend both of them 1-on-1. Otherwise, I'd definitely train with them."
Russell looked at the two playing intensely nearby, a look of envy in his eyes.
"..." Jeff Green was speechless.
Last season, Indiana Pacers' core player Danny Granger had an excellent performance, averaging 25+5+3, and was selected for the All-Star, but the team only achieved a record of 36 wins and 46 losses, ranking ninth in the Eastern Conference, ultimately missing the Playoffs.
After the start of the new season, perhaps due to personnel changes, the Indiana Pacers currently only have a record of 11 wins and 24 losses, ranking tenth in the Eastern Conference.
Many media reporters no longer paid attention to this team, as, following this trend, the Indiana Pacers would still be fishing for the Playoffs in the new season.
However, the game against the Thunder on the evening of the 9th received a lot of attention because the big-mouthed Hibbert boasted, proclaiming himself the best center in the Eastern Conference, and even threatened to dominate the Thunder's paint!
Before the game, in the Thunder's locker room, Coach Brooks no longer emphasized tactical arrangements. They had already done a lot of preparation in the past few days; now, the players just needed to go on the court as planned.
"Enjoy the game, boys, this is our home court. Make sure to protect the rebounds, don't disappoint the Oklahoma City fans who came to watch!"
"Yeah! One, Two, Three, Family!"
The Thunder were playing four consecutive home games, which made the Oklahoma City fans as happy as if it were New Year's. Although they lost the first home game to the Charlotte Hornets, this wouldn't dampen the fans' enthusiasm.
Tonight, more fans arrived early at the Ford Center with their cheer signs to support the home team.
When Danny Granger and Roy Hibbert saw the Thunder players come out to a thunderous roar of cheers, they instantly felt a pang of envy. They never received such a reception at their own home court.
"Danny, remember to pass me the ball a lot when we're on the court. I'm definitely going to dominate their paint!"
During the final warm-up, Hibbert found his leader, Granger, and quietly requested.
"No problem, Roy, I believe in your ability. Just remember to give me a few defensive rebounds."
Danny Granger, acting like the leader, punched Hibbert in the chest and readily agreed. The two exchanged smiles, both feeling that this game was practically in the bag.
The Thunder's home commentator Twin was introducing the Indiana Pacers' starting lineup:
"Coach O'Brien still has a Twin tower lineup, Earl Watson and Luther Head in the backcourt, Danny Granger and Troy Murphy on the wings, and Roy Hibbert at center."
"It's worth noting that Murphy is 211cm and Hibbert is 218cm. This will put immense pressure on our paint. Of course, I believe the Thunder boys will win the game; we've beaten the Los Angeles Lakers' Twin towers before!"
Commentator Twin started hyping up the Thunder players, which is what Oklahoma City fans loved to hear.
"My shot feels good today, maybe I can shoot them to death from beyond the arc!"
During warm-ups, Russell, while swishing shots into the basket, said with a smile to Kayce beside him.
"Their rim protection isn't as good as you think. Drive to the basket boldly, this is our home court!"
After watching the Indiana Pacers' game footage before the game, Kayce knew why their record was so poor. The core issue was their defense. The Twin towers looked intimidating, but many times the Indiana Pacers didn't gain an advantage in rebounding.
"We'll destroy them from the outside. Their big men are too slow laterally, and their perimeter height isn't enough. I'm already looking forward to their pick-and-roll switches!"
Durant also said with a triumphant expression.
"Go get 'em, guys, I'll be waving towels for you from the bench!"
Jeff Green also came out at this time to show his support, indicating that he was with the team.
"Haha, just don't injure your other hand. We're all waiting for your return!"
"The game begins, Hibbert, with his immense height advantage, tipped the ball to the Indiana Pacers."
On the Indiana Pacers' first possession, Watson dribbled past half-court and immediately passed the ball to team leader Danny Granger. After a pick-and-roll with Murphy, Granger made a bounce pass to Murphy at the free-throw line. Hibbert had already successfully established position in the low post, and Murphy threw a high-arc pass.
A simple high-low post combination, Hibbert, facing Collison's defense, took a step into the paint with the ball, then immediately turned and threw a hook shot.
"Swish" Two points scored in the paint.
The Thunder didn't mind, quickly inbounded the ball, and Russell rapidly advanced to the frontcourt. Everyone quickly got into position. Collison came up for a pick-and-roll, drove right with an acceleration, easily shook off Watson's defense, dribbled twice, then pulled up for a jump shot from the right elbow of the free-throw line.
"Swish!" The mid-range shot went in steadily.
The Indiana Pacers' backcourt consisted of Watson at 185cm and Head at 191cm, a defensive combination that was essentially a freebie. Kayce, facing these two, was essentially playing against smaller opponents.
"Ah!! Oh!"
Ford Center erupted in cheers. After Russell scored the Thunder's first points, everyone finally settled down to watch the game.
When the Indiana Pacers attacked again, they felt something was off. The defensive pressure from Russell and Kayce was too strong. Both of them had advantages in height and physique, and with the added benefit of home-court officiating, they were really getting physical.
Danny Granger felt something was wrong and quickly went to help, but Durant constantly covered him, preventing him from shooting easily. He could only pass the ball to the low post again. This time, Murphy, relying on his height and experience, scored another two points in the paint.
The Thunder quickly inbounded the ball. This time, after Kayce received the ball, he quickly dribbled past half-court. Noticing Head was sticking very close, Kayce, with the ball in his left hand, suddenly accelerated. Head quickly retreated a step.
While in motion, Kayce suddenly changed direction with a crossover. Head instinctively shifted his defensive weight forward. At this moment, Kayce suddenly dribbled the ball behind his back with his right hand, taking a large step back for a jump shot.
"Swish!" The three-pointer swished through the net.
For a smaller guard, after shaking off the defense, a direct jump shot would be enough. This was the advantage of height; the opponent found it very difficult to interfere with Kayce's shot.
"Wow! What a fantastic three-pointer! Indiana Pacers' Head needs to be careful. Don't let Kayce find his shooting rhythm, or he will surely destroy you. He is best at matching up against smaller guards."
Although the commentator Twin hyped him up, after seeing Kayce sink the three-pointer, the Thunder players had just crossed half-court, and he couldn't help but feel a little nervous for Kayce. It wasn't a good shot selection, but luckily it went in.
The Indiana Pacers' offense remained unhurried. They seemed to have adopted the Charlotte Hornets' strategy from the previous game, slowing down the offensive pace. This time, as the shot clock was about to expire, Danny Granger hit a tough mid-range jumper after a pick-and-roll.
But the Thunder quickly countered with a fast-paced offense. After Kayce crossed half-court, he immediately ran to the left corner to create space. Durant, using two screens from Collison and Ibaka, easily shook off his defender.
He received the pass from Russell beyond the three-point line and, without hesitation, immediately took a jump shot.
"Swish!" The three-pointer went in steadily.
"Kevin's three-pointer also goes in! It seems the Thunder's young men are feeling it tonight. They finished their offense in 14 seconds. I love this pace of the game!"
The home commentator Twin felt that the Thunder were slowly taking control of the game.
In the first half of the 1st quarter, the Indiana Pacers barely managed to control the pace, but after 6 minutes, Danny Granger felt he was losing control of the game. The Thunder's shooting percentage was incredibly high, and their offense was getting faster and faster.
After continuous fast breaks and transitions, the Indiana Pacers' Twin towers were already struggling to keep up with the game's pace. The Thunder almost completely abandoned low-post offense, which made it difficult for Hibbert and Murphy to utilize their strengths.
Russell's high pick-and-roll was very difficult for big men to defend. If they stepped up, they'd be driven past. If they dropped back, they could only watch mid-range shots go in. But this wasn't the most despairing part for Hibbert and Murphy; Kayce and Durant's playstyle was the real killer.
On a Thunder possession, Ibaka and Collison set screens at the left and right elbows of the free-throw line. Kayce moved from right to left, a simple cross-cut, shaking off his defender. When he received the ball at the left 45-degree angle beyond the three-point line, he was facing Murphy, who had switched onto him.
Seeing his opponent raise both hands, attempting to use his height advantage to defend, Kayce first dribbled twice between his legs while stationary, then pulled back with a right-handed cross-step dribble, which caused Murphy's defensive weight to shift forward.
He quickly changed direction with a left-handed crossover. After a flashy, wide-ranging spin, Kayce easily shook off his defender, accelerated with the ball in his left hand, ignored Hibbert's help defense at the rim, took off, pulled his left arm back, and delivered a powerful one-handed dunk!
"Slam!" A driving dunk for two points.
"Oh! Ah!!"
The Ford Center crowd roared with excitement, unable to contain their thrill. Hibbert was knocked down by Kayce, or more accurately, he landed unsteadily after an aerial collision and directly fell to his knees.
Hibbert, kneeling on the floor, saw Kayce give him a slight smile before immediately transitioning back to defense. He was instantly enraged. On the Indiana Pacers' next possession, after receiving the ball in the low post, he faced Ibaka, who had switched onto him, and aggressively backed him down, attempting a forceful move to the basket.
However, just as he created space and attempted a soft right-handed floater, Kayce, who had rushed over from behind, swatted it away with a huge block. Hibbert could only watch as Kayce secured the ball and initiated a fast break.
The first pass found Russell, who was leading the break. The latter received the ball, took three long strides, and threw down a one-handed dunk with his right arm!
"Slam!" A transition dunk for two points.
In the remaining minutes, the Thunder went on a 12-4 run. At the end of the 1st quarter, it was 24-32. After several transition offenses, they easily built an 8-point lead.
In the 2nd quarter, the Indiana Pacers continued to maintain their height advantage, with Hibbert still playing, but unfortunately, after a few possessions, the Indiana Pacers players' mentality collapsed.
Kayce, in offensive mode, showcased his comprehensive offensive skills. Facing guards, he used a back-to-the-basket isolation. When AJ Price, who came off the bench, switched onto Kayce, he could only watch Kayce turn and hit a Fade Away, easily sinking the ball. His 188cm height simply couldn't interfere with Kayce's shot.
Facing the Indiana Pacers' frontcourt of Mike Dunleavy, Solomon Jones, and Brandon Rush, Kayce's combination of fast and slow crossovers made these three almost doubt their lives.
When Mike Dunleavy switched onto him, Kayce executed a series of continuous crossovers. His right hand paused slightly, faking a gather, and Dunleavy was completely faked out. Kayce then effortlessly changed direction with a front crossover and pulled up for a jump shot from beyond the three-point line.
"Swish!" The three-pointer swished through the net.
Hibbert was ineffective on the court. Most of the Thunder's offense involved shooting, and even on misses, they were long rebounds, which made him extremely awkward, as he couldn't even grab a few rebounds.
When Durant also returned to the court, the Thunder's trio completely exploded in the 2nd quarter, attacking both inside and out, effectively blowing the game open.
At halftime, it was 46-66, with the Thunder leading by 20 points. This was also thanks to Danny Granger's excellent performance for the Indiana Pacers, who started the second quarter by throwing up three-pointers like crazy. As soon as the transition offense started, the lead quickly widened.
During halftime at Ford Center, all the fans were beaming with joy. This game was truly too easy. Leading by 20 points at halftime, there was no suspense left!
After the second half began, the Indiana Pacers struggled for three minutes, then completely collapsed. Durant's unreasonable three-pointers swished in one after another. Once the lead extended beyond 20 points, the game entered garbage time.
Ultimately, 96-116, the Thunder decisively defeated the Indiana Pacers at home, solidifying their position as the Western Conference's top team.
After the game, facing media reporters, Kayce smiled slightly and teased Hibbert:
"A 218cm big man only got 4 rebounds in the entire game. Such a performance cannot dominate the paint!"
David Lee of the New York Knicks felt a bit intimidated after watching the Indiana Pacers' game. Was this a test from God for him?
The 3rd phase of All-Star paper ballot voting had already closed. David Lee had originally wanted to use the game against the Thunder to perform well and drum up votes for himself, as there were still 8 days of electronic voting. But now, he only hoped that he could win the game peacefully.
However, David Lee's thoughts were overly optimistic. The New York Knicks currently had a record of 15 wins and 21 losses, and the team's defense, as the regular season progressed, was becoming increasingly poor.
On the night of the 11th, when they challenged the Thunder on the road, David Lee and Jared Jeffries' interior combination was shot to pieces by Kayce and Durant from the perimeter. The Knicks' defensive rotations were too poor, with players getting lost after a few screens.
Ultimately, 88-112, the Thunder crushed the New York Knicks at home, and David Lee lost badly.
In these two games, Kayce continuously put up 24+5+6, while Durant had 32+6+2. Such terrifying perimeter shooting ability made teams across the NBA exclaim in disbelief. Even more outrageous was that Russell also contributed 20+5+5. The Thunder's trio was formidable!
This also made everyone realize that even without their starting interior player, the Thunder's advantage was not easily exploited.
Two consecutive exhilarating victories put Durant in a good mood. Moreover, his agent Kleiman was already taking action, and many media outlets and critics began discussing Durant's story.
"MVP, here I come! Kayce, just assist me from now on!"
Durant, at home, was reading comments from Oklahoma City fans on Twitter and shouting excitedly in his heart. When he thought of something happy, he would occasionally do a tactical Fade Away, enjoying himself alone at home.
Kayce didn't pay too much attention to the MVP matter, because the upcoming schedule was very unfriendly to the Thunder. The Spurs and Mavericks both wanted revenge, and Bosh, the Dragon King of the Toronto Raptors, was also waiting to capitalize.
"I hope the upcoming games go smoothly. If we go on a losing streak, the top spot in the Western Conference will be gone. The Los Angeles Lakers are getting better and better! I really hope they lose soon."
"Kayce, unfortunately, after the 3rd phase of paper ballot voting closed, you ranked third in the Western Conference. This means you are very likely to miss out on the All-Star Game this year. You know some things."
The NBA had just announced the All-Star voting data, and agent Chapman immediately called to console Kayce.
"It's okay, I've never really cared about being an All-Star starter. Thank you for your concern!"
These were Kayce's sincere words, after all, he was just a rookie.
"That's good. By the way, your single is selling well, we should plan an album release. Listen to me, I have a bold idea..."
"Ah, next time for sure, Chapman, I need to train now..."
Kayce quickly hung up the phone. He didn't want to listen to the other party's nagging right now. Although he had already anticipated missing out on an All-Star starter spot, the third-place result still left him with some regret:
"I really hope the old guys step aside soon."