The only people in a completely opposite state to all NBA fans were probably the Chinese fans.
After fans repeatedly confirmed the news was accurate, they left messages on social media, expressing support for Kai Chen.
"Kai Chen has proven more than once in the NCAA that he is the best player in this draft!"
"The Los Angeles Clippers will not be disheartened by trading away Blake Griffin; Kai Chen will lead them to the peak!"
"Sometimes you have to admire Jerry West; his vision is still so sharp!"
"Jerry West is the best general manager in the NBA!"
...
"From the statements of the American commentators, it seems that the trade involving Kai Chen was authorized by Los Angeles Clippers owner Ballmer and Jerry West!"
After the draft, Barkley obtained some key intelligence: "Before this, Charlotte Hornets owner Michael Jordan also wanted to acquire Kai Chen by trading up in the draft!"
"From this, it's not hard to see how much the Los Angeles Clippers value Kai."
Barkley chimed in, "That's right, after trading away Blake Griffin, the Los Angeles Clippers currently don't have a single player on their roster who can compete with Kai Chen for ball possession."
Smith excitedly stated, "This also means that Kai Chen will become the team's primary offensive option in his first season!"
In other words, Kai Chen is the absolute core of the Los Angeles Clippers!
His playing time and stats are absolutely guaranteed!
As the draft concluded, then-NBA Commissioner Adam Silver held a press conference to address recent controversy.
"First of all, I want to apologize to the Chinese fans here."
Adam Silver said as soon as he sat down, "I need to reiterate to you all that our NBA league has always highly respected Chinese culture and territory."
"We have already imposed the appropriate punishment on Morey; he will not work for any NBA team in the future!"
Ever since Yao Ming entered the NBA as the first overall pick, the league gained an initial understanding of the Chinese market.
The terrifying influence and viewership made them reluctant to let go.
Now, with Kai Chen entering the NBA with a high draft pick again, the league has already envisioned the future prospects of this massive market.
.....
On July 1st, the NBA trade market officially opened.
On the first day of the trade market, several trades finalized on draft day were also completed.
Blake Griffin went to Orlando, and the Orlando Magic's general manager even personally went to the airport to pick him up.
After welcoming Griffin, the Orlando Magic officially emerged from the shadow of Howard's departure; they finally welcomed an All-Star–level player.
Deandre Ayton, who joined Phoenix as the first overall pick, became the hope of the entire city.
At his team meeting, he told local Phoenix reporters,
"I will prove with my strength how correct the team's choice was!"
Luka Dončić received the No. 77 jersey from team owner Mark Cuban.
This European king began his legendary NBA career.
In addition, "Little Curry" Trae Young became the new darling of Atlanta Hawks fans; although this young point guard has some physical deficiencies, his explosive scoring ability is still very reliable!
Of course, the focus of the entire United States was still on Los Angeles!
Los Angeles International Airport!
Thousands of fans wearing Los Angeles Clippers jerseys, local Los Angeles media, TNT, and other media workers had been waiting at the airport for a long time.
Not only fans and media, but also the Los Angeles Clippers' management, led by Head Coach Rivers, quietly waited outside the airport.
"He's here!"
Soon, thousands of fans outside the airport stirred simultaneously.
The appearance of Kai Chen and Grayson Allen caused a sensation inside and outside the entire airport.
Many fans were also present, holding up signs to welcome Kai Chen's arrival.
"Kai, Grayson, Jerry West wants to see you."
Los Angeles Clippers Head Coach Rivers, who came to greet Kai Chen and Grayson Allen, stepped forward to help them with their luggage: "He has been waiting for you for a long time!"
"I admire him very much."
Kai Chen smiled. Kai Chen had always greatly respected this "Logo Man."
As the only player in NBA history to win the NBA Finals MVP as a loser.
This outstanding guard from the 1970s is also one of the indispensable players in Los Angeles Lakers history.
Jerry West was already famous during his playing career, but his eye for talent after retirement was even sharper.
And his masterpiece was undoubtedly the 1996 draft.
This year was filled with stars, including Allen Iverson, Stephon Marbury, Steve Nash, Ray Allen, and many other potential players.
However, Jerry West, then the Los Angeles Lakers' general manager, made a decision that everyone thought was foolish.
He traded Vlade Divac, who had already become the Los Angeles Lakers' starting center, for a high school student who hadn't even played in the NCAA; his name was Kobe Bryant.
Simply because when Kobe participated in the Los Angeles Lakers tryout, Jerry West made a prediction: "This boy will dominate the league for an era!"
Kobe quickly proved with his actions that he was no ordinary talent; that seemingly disastrous trade for the Los Angeles Lakers brought them five championships.
Facts proved that Jerry West's choice made the Los Angeles Lakers a true powerhouse.
In Kai Chen's trade, he and Kobe had many things in common.
Jerry West gave up an All-Star player within the team for both of them.
It was precisely because of Kobe's precedent that even though many Clippers fans had doubts about Jerry West's choice, those negative messages were quickly drowned out.
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