On January 18th, the 2009-2010 season All-Star voting officially closed tonight. On the 22nd, the NBA will announce this season's All-Star vote leader and player roster.
However, these matters are currently not of great concern to the Thunder players, as they are flying to Atlanta to begin a four-game road trip.
During the journey, everyone gossiped about recent events in the league. Jeff Green even whispered mysteriously to the group:
"Guys, do you know what kind of gun Crtittenton pulled out in the locker room?"
"Didn't the media reports all say it? A Desert Eagle. It's hard to imagine the scene at the time!"
Durant replied casually, his eyes still fixed on a Hollywood gossip magazine: "Scarlett's Marriage in Crisis."
"No, it was a custom gold Desert Eagle. It's said that Arenas was also stunned at the time, but neither of them actually intended to shoot each other. They were quickly separated by everyone. On this point, the media exaggerated!"
Jeff Green began to show off his insider information again.
"Arenas is completely finished, directly suspended. I thought that guy could make the All-Star team again, after all, fans are very nostalgic. Look at Iverson, who returned to the 76ers; according to previous paper ballot counts, he has already surpassed Wade."
Russell was a bit envious of Iverson's votes, first in the Eastern Conference backcourt, the emotional bonus was too strong.
The Arenas locker room gun incident broke in early January, and NBA Commissioner Stern was particularly furious about it.
The league has always advocated for players to stay away from violence, and for Arenas's over-the-line behavior, the league was naturally unforgiving, imposing an immediate suspension.
Allen Iverson's return to the 76ers, on the other hand, happened in early December 2009.
At that time, many 76ers fans were still fantasizing that the returning Iverson could lead the team to a winning streak, but unfortunately, reality was cruel, and Iverson's competitive state was very poor.
The media only reported on it for about a week. After seeing Iverson completely out of form, they stopped paying attention, until the All-Star voting began and Iverson, with his emotional bonus, topped the Eastern Conference guard line, which again drew the attention of media reporters.
"The All-Star Game features the same old faces every year; the league should give some opportunities to new players!"
Kayce complained with a blank look in his eyes. Last night, Anne helped Beth deliver something, and Kayce was so excited he almost stayed up all night playing a big game.
Fortunately, the B+ grade functional drink helped him replenish his energy, otherwise, in tonight's game, he would definitely have turned into a soft-legged shrimp.
"Kayce, how do you feel? The league's votes are too fake. Think about his fans in China, and then think about the fans brought by the song 'Shape of You.' Haha, the last voting data was nearly 100,000 less than Nash."
"That's how it is for rookies. The coaches will prioritize other teams when selecting reserves. After all, if Kevin is selected, the chances of selecting Kayce are too small."
"It's okay, Kayce. Maybe you can participate in the Three-Point Contest. You should take fewer shots when the 24-second clock is almost up, and stop throwing half-court threes. These all lower your shooting percentage."
"I think Kayce should participate in the Skills Challenge. If he can compete, I'll bet 1000 US dollars that Kayce will definitely win the championship."
"Wow! That's a good idea, guys, is anyone participating? Let's open a few more bets. I'll bet Nowitzki will win the All-Star Game MVP!"
Kayce saw the Thunder players' eyes light up, all turning into gambling addicts, and immediately felt helpless to complain:
"Someone even bet on me winning the All-Star MVP, Menor, you're just throwing money away…"
…
When mentioning the Atlanta Hawks, most veteran fans first think of the Human Highlight Film, Dominique Wilkins.
From the 80s to the 90s, this superstar made the Hawks a strong team in the Eastern Conference, but after the glory, the team gradually entered a low point.
After coaching changes, widespread injuries, and roster reconstruction, the Hawks, after years of decline, rose again. After drafting Al Horford with the 3rd overall pick in the 2007 draft, the team made the Playoffs again.
Last season, the Hawks had a record of 47 wins and 35 losses, ranking fourth in the Eastern Conference.
Although they were easily swept 4-0 by the Cavaliers led by LeBron James in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, it is undeniable that the Hawks were back on track.
This season, the Hawks currently have a record of 26 wins and 13 losses, ranking third in the Eastern Conference.
Joe Johnson is the team's most consistent scorer, and Josh Smith and Al Horford are also fulfilling their potential. Barring any surprises, the Hawks will still make the Playoffs this season.
The Hawks' home arena, Philips Arena, was packed tonight. When the team performs well, attendance is high, and most importantly, the team's playing style is currently quite entertaining, so tickets sell well.
Before the game, in the Thunder's locker room, Coach Brooks repeatedly instructed the players:
"Serge, watch out for Josh Smith's drives, protect our paint, and pay attention to help defense on Al Horford; he's very good at mid-range jumpers."
Ibaka immediately nodded, indicating he understood, and at the same time, breathed a sigh of relief.
In the previous game against the Heat, he was outshot by Beasley, who scored 26 points. He had thought he would be benched, but Coach Brooks still trusted him.
"According to our pre-game tactical arrangements, if high pick-and-rolls consistently don't create good opportunities, we can increase low-post offense. Kayce, control our offensive rhythm and reduce turnovers."
Kayce also nodded. He knew the coach was concerned about the Hawks' perimeter also playing switch defense, and in situations where the offense couldn't get going, low-post offense was indeed a good option.
It was almost time for the visiting team to come out. In the player tunnel, Durant suddenly whispered:
"Guys, protect yourselves during the game. Many people are jealous of us. Kayce, especially you, reduce some dunks. You know why!"
"Don't worry, I know what I'm doing. Russell should be the one paying attention."
Kayce had already noticed this. Since the All-Star voting began, many players felt envy, jealousy, and hatred towards him! Some people, seeing his excellent play and soaring popularity, felt even worse than if they had been cut.
Kayce was also worried about being undercut by jealous players, so he gradually changed his playing style. Without absolute certainty, he firmly avoided driving into the paint, and every jump shot, he tried to completely shake off the defender.
Kayce's goal was to become the strongest floor player, leaving them no room to undercut!
"They're all fast-break dunks, they won't have a chance to foul. I've wrapped my Ankle Guard very thickly, no one can hurt me!"
Russell said indifferently. Most of his drives are straight-line accelerations, so wrapping his Ankle Guard thickly indeed doesn't affect him much.
"It doesn't hurt to be more careful. There's still half of the regular season left. After the All-Star Game, everyone will have to prepare for the Playoffs. We can't get injured now! Let's go, guys!"
Big brother Collison also spoke up. The team's situation was looking great this year, and he didn't want to be eliminated from the Playoffs due to injuries.
"Ah! One, two, three, family!"
After the Hawks' home DJ made a series of excited shouts, the game was about to begin. Head Coach Mike Woodson, while the players were finishing their warm-ups, emphasized again:
"You must defend out on the perimeter, and be quick to switch on screens. Josh, Al, you two must communicate well defensively. Don't give the opponent easy scoring opportunities."
"Okay, Coach!"
Al Horford immediately indicated that he understood. He was actually holding a grudge as well; as a fellow 2007 rookie, Durant seemed to be making the All-Star team already, and it would be a lie to say he wasn't jealous. In this game, he also wanted to prove his own abilities.
After a brief greeting between the players, the referee signaled Kostić and Horford to come to center court.
The Thunder were on offense. Russell dribbled past half-court, and Kostić immediately went to set a screen. Al Horford naturally chose not to sag back defensively, but instead stepped up directly, not giving Russell a chance to shoot a Fade Away.
Seeing that he was completely covered by the opponent's height, Russell did not rush to attack, but turned around and passed the ball to Kostić at the high post. At this time, Kayce quickly moved to the top of the key and played a handoff with Kostić.
Using Kostić's large frame, Kayce successfully broke free from Joe Johnson's entanglement. After dribbling once with his right hand, he pulled up for a jump shot from beyond the three-point line.
"Swish!" The three-pointer swished through the net.
This was Kostić's role. A big man playing a handoff at the high post easily created opportunities. Collison was only average in this regard, as there was still a significant difference in their physiques, and Kostić's screen and roll were more effective.
"Boo!"
The home fans immediately erupted in a chorus of boos. Kayce was now, albeit barely, considered a star player. Although he was still a rookie, he had already entered the top 10 in the All-Star voting.
The Hawks slowed down their offensive pace. After Mike Bibby crossed half-court, he made an offensive signal and immediately passed the ball to Al Horford, who had moved up to the free-throw line.
Joe Johnson and Josh Smith set a cross-screen on the baseline. Kayce anticipated the opponent's tactical intention in advance, skillfully dodged Josh Smith's screen, and continued to chase Joe Johnson.
When Joe Johnson received the pass from Al Horford, facing Kayce's tight defense, after a triple threat, he quickly put the ball down with his right hand, dribbled once, and then suddenly pulled the ball back between his legs, attempting to fake out Kayce.
However, with the Ankle Guard badge activated, Kayce maintained good defensive balance. Seeing this, Joe Johnson protected the ball with his left hand, backed down twice, and then immediately shot a Fade Away.
"Swish!" The mid-range shot went in steadily.
"Oh, ho!"
Seeing their star player successfully post up Kayce in the low block, the fans in attendance immediately erupted in huge cheers.
However, Joe Johnson, who was retreating on defense, secretly frowned. He hadn't actually shaken off Kayce on that play; he had mostly relied on his weight advantage to create space for the shot. This was not a good sign. Kayce was even more difficult to deal with than he appeared in the videos.
Kayce also secretly rubbed his chest. Joe Johnson wasn't fast; he relied more on rhythm and physicality. The opponent was 10 kg heavier than him, and the two back-down moves had indeed given him a hard time. He couldn't help but grumble in his mind:
"Playing the 2-guard, his weight is almost like a power forward. This playstyle is a bit strange."
The Thunder quickly inbounded the ball. By the time Russell dribbled past half-court, Kayce was already in the corner, creating offensive space for his teammates.
After a double screen inside, Durant received the ball and instantly drove to the basket. Horford, who switched onto him, was defending very closely, but this was not a good defensive choice.
While moving, Durant dribbled behind his back with his left hand and quickly changed direction in front with his right, easily shaking off Horford's defense, and pulled up for a mid-range jump shot.
"Swish!" The two points went in steadily.
Horford cursed inwardly as he saw Durant easily shake him off; he had indeed underestimated him.
This season, Durant's ball-handling ability had significantly improved. Coupled with his huge range of motion, once he was shaken off, Horford could only watch Durant easily take the shot.
Coach Woodson felt a bit helpless seeing the Thunder easily score on both of their first two possessions. The defensive strategy was fine, but there was indeed a gap in player ability. Ultimately, it was a lack of experience!
The Hawks attacked. Joe Johnson and Horford ran a pick-and-roll. After the screen, Horford received a bounce pass at the free-throw line and immediately shot a jump shot without hesitation.
"Bang!" It was an air ball.
Kostić, playing drop coverage, easily grabbed the defensive rebound and passed it to Russell. The latter accelerated wildly after receiving the ball, quickly crossed half-court, changed direction in front of his body while moving, shook off the recovering Marvin Williams, took three big steps, and lightly laid up the ball with his left hand.
"Swish!" Two points on the fast break.
Although he couldn't dunk, Russell was still very happy after the score. As long as he made a few consecutive fast-break scores, Russell's game emotions would immediately rise, and his defense would become more focused.
In the subsequent game, the Thunder systematically executed the tactical strategies planned before the game, constantly setting screens, making off-ball cuts, and shooting jump shots after receiving the ball.
In summary, they started by running plays. If they didn't get a shot opportunity, they would pass to Ibaka or Kostić at the high post.
Then Kayce would go for a handoff to organize the play. If Kayce was contained, then Russell or Durant would go up to receive the ball.
Finally, if tactical cooperation couldn't be achieved, it would resort to individual isolation to complete the offense. The basic principle was to minimize turnovers. This was the basic tactical approach that the coaching staff had discovered was most suitable for the Thunder after half of the regular season.
Of course, this meant Kayce would sacrifice some statistics, as he was often the one who had to take the last-second shot.
But there was no other way. Russell was a guard, and his long-range shooting wasn't very reliable. Durant still needed to pad his stats this season. Among the team, only Kayce was best suited to take the last-second shot.
On this Thunder possession, the play didn't work out. Seeing only 8 seconds left on the shot clock, Kayce received a pass from Ibaka beyond the three-point line. His teammates quickly spaced out. He held the ball with his left hand, dribbled between his legs repeatedly, and then suddenly accelerated.
Joe Johnson also knew there was little time left on the shot clock, so he defended him tightly. Kayce, while moving, suddenly dribbled behind his back twice in a row, quickly changed direction between his legs with his left hand, and dribbled the ball once in place with his right hand.
The rhythm suddenly changed from fast to slow, easily shaking off Joe Johnson's defense. He quickly gathered the ball and shot a mid-range jump shot.
"Swish!" The two-point shot went in easily.
"Boo!!!"
The home arena once again erupted in huge boos. They were about to successfully defend, but Kayce threw the ball in again, which infuriated the Atlanta fans.
Coach Brooks nodded with satisfaction on the sidelines. Tactics must be played, but individual offense cannot be abandoned. This was his ideal team basketball. The past two years were just a nightmare.
The first quarter of the game was uneventful. The Hawks really tried to defend, but their defensive experience was still a bit lacking compared to the Spurs.
Although Horford and Josh Smith protected the paint well, the Thunder easily took an 8-point lead simply by relying on fast breaks and outside shooting.
The first quarter ended 30-22. Coach Brooks had already sat back on the bench for the latter half of the quarter. With Kayce on the court, this game was very stable.
"Eastern Conference Third Seed? Doesn't feel like too much pressure, guys. I like playing against Eastern Conference teams."
Durant easily scored 12 points in the first quarter. He felt like he was just constantly catching and shooting, and the score was already widening. Such a game was indeed very easy for him.
"Whoa, Kevin, again! You have the potential to be a jinx. Let's just play our game systematically."
Russell noticed that whenever Durant set a Flag, the result would always backfire. Hearing Durant's words, he quickly interjected.
"Alright, we need to focus and maintain our offensive rhythm. Kayce, you're starting the second quarter. You and Thabo Sefolosha need to pay attention to defending Jamal Crawford. He has very strong scoring ability."
Coach Brooks only gave Kayce a simple reminder. As long as they got through the second quarter, this game would basically be secure.
"No problem, don't worry, Coach!"
Kayce replied confidently. He believed that with the boost from his several defensive badges, Crawford would have a hard time getting the better of him.
But when the second quarter began, Kayce was a bit bewildered. It wasn't that Crawford was playing exceptionally well, but rather that the opponent had directly imploded. He came out shooting with such determination, just throwing up shots, but unfortunately, after he threw them, they all clanked off the rim.
After the Thunder controlled the long rebounds, they went on a series of fast breaks, and the lead quickly widened to 16 points. Coach Woodson called another timeout. Coach Ben on the sidelines was stunned and had to call two consecutive timeouts to interrupt the Thunder's momentum.
Kayce, sitting on the bench, had a strange expression. He seriously suspected that Jamal Crawford had fixed the game. After he came in, he directly gave the game away in one wave.
The home fans also lost their enthusiasm by this point. Could this game still be played? They were trailing by quite a bit!
After the timeout, Jamal Crawford finally made a mid-range shot, but this did not change the trend of the game. The Thunder, with a large lead, played more patiently on offense, consistently maintaining the point differential.
By the middle of the third quarter, both teams had called it quits, and the game officially entered garbage time. Kayce was the first to be substituted out. In this game, he again easily scored 20 points, 4 rebounds, and 8 assists, successfully clocking out after three quarters.
The game time quickly ran out. In the end, 104:92, the Thunder easily defeated the Hawks on the road, getting their road trip off to a good start.
"See! I told you, I like games against Eastern Conference teams!"
After the game, a smiling Durant whispered to his teammates. He had 30 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists in this game. Although he padded his stats a bit in garbage time, he couldn't be blamed for that; it was just that the Hawks were too soft.
"I guarantee you'll like the next game too! The Minnesota Timberwolves haven't won in a long time!"
Kayce was in a good mood and made a simple joke. Everyone chuckled knowingly after hearing that. Bottom-feeder teams were the Thunder's favorite!
On January 20th, the Thunder played an away game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, who were tanking for the first pick this season. They currently had a record of 9 wins and 33 losses, placing them last in the Western Conference.
It was an easy and enjoyable game throughout. Kayce once again clocked out after three quarters, 108:92, as the Thunder decisively defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves on the road.
After the game, Kayce and Russell went together to visit their good brother Love. The poor kid was injured again.
However, when Kayce and Russell arrived at Love's house and saw him, they couldn't help but curse:
"Shit! Bro! How did you get so fat?"