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***

On June 28, 2006, at the Madison Square Garden Theater, the atmosphere became even livelier as NBA Deputy Commissioner Stu Jackson read out the final draft pick.

“…The New York Knicks select Jose Juan Barea from Northeastern University with the 60th pick.”

This news didn’t attract much attention.

As a late second-round pick, he would likely fade out of the league in a few years.

The onlookers were all discussing the Bobcats’ pick at this time.

At the ESPN broadcast booth, Dan Patrick was still chatting with Lee about Rookie players.

The famous host was all smiles as he continued to ask curiously:

“At that time, the Knicks lost to the Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, but you guys did well in the offseason. We are all curious how you gained Head Coach Van Gundy’s trust?”

As the Draft was nearing its end, the two discussed more about “how Rookies should establish themselves in the league.”

Hearing the question, Lee didn’t hold back and responded seriously to the camera:

“Trust is mutual. Besides seizing limited opportunities, a Rookie also needs to communicate actively with the coaching staff.”

“You need to let the coach know what you’re good at, offer your opinions on the game, or even draw up plays that suit you—these are all good options.”

Although in some games, the director would capture footage of Lee taking the tactics board, Dan Patrick still showed a surprised expression upon confirming the rumors:

“Drawing up plays? God, that’s truly incredible. I think most players would just obediently follow the coach’s arrangements.”

The director wished he could shove the camera right into Lee’s face.

This topic was far more interesting than the boring second-round draft list.

“Drawing up plays doesn’t mean going against the coach’s wishes. Who understands you best? Without a doubt, it’s yourself.”

“I really miss that time. Charlie Ward was a very competitive guy. He was strong and very aggressive on Defense.”

“It wasn’t easy to compete with a player like that, especially since I was still very thin back then.”

“So, I had to maximize my strengths. When the coaching staff and teammates clearly saw that I could indeed help the team better, I became a starter.”

Lee showed a nostalgic expression.

Seeing Dan Patrick still looking at him curiously, he simply shrugged and continued to joke:

“But I don’t recommend Rookies joining the New York Knicks to repeat my actions. Coach DAntoni’s tactics board is too rich. The first thing a Rookie needs to do is understand the tactics.”

“Most importantly, to compete with me, you have to pass the test. I beat Starks back then, and ‘the Madman’ was no small fry. He was my Good Brother.”

“This is a tradition of the New York Knicks. Only if a Rookie can defeat me can he gain the right to speak. So, for now, focusing on accepting arrangements is the best choice.”

Dan Patrick laughed again.

This year, the New York Knicks unusually selected two backcourt players and one frontcourt player, no longer gambling on big men.

This was also a change brought by Donnie Walsh:

“What an interesting experience. Perhaps in the future, we will see these scenes in a documentary!”

Lee nodded along, but quickly added with a smile:

“It’s too early to talk about these things. I’m only 28, maybe I can play for another 10 years.”

“I have indeed won a lot, and I won’t deny that my desire for victory is decreasing, but I still enjoy competing with excellent players.”

“Seeing young people challenge me, it’s as if I see my past self. Competing with them brings me more joy.”

“…”

At the Draft site, teams in the Eastern Conference were indeed very happy.

The Atlanta Hawks selected the incredibly talented high-flyer Tyrus Thomas with the 3rd pick!

The Celtics selected Randy Foye with the 6th pick, and the Orlando Magic selected J.J. Redick with the 10th pick.

The Pacers selected Sheldon Williams with the 12th pick, and the Milwaukee Bucks selected Thabo Sefolosha with the 13th pick.

The tanking teams all had significant gains.

After the new season begins, the future is promising again, with new players bringing new hope!

Corresponding trades quickly followed.

Randy Foye was sent to the Portland Trail Blazers before he even had time to be proud of being a Celtic.

Before he could react again, the Timberwolves made a move.

Brandon Roy was traded to Portland before he received a congratulatory text message from Kevin Garnett.

Randy Foye, with Lee’s template, will team up with Kevin Garnett.

After the trade, sports reporters on the scene praised it as “a promising future.”

Andrea Bargnani was already surrounded by reporters.

The first overall pick was beaming with joy.

Although Toronto’s geographical location was average, there was more money!

LaMarcus Aldridge’s face wasn’t looking good.

He would rather go to the Bobcats to form a twin-tower lineup than waste time in a ‘prison team’.

Fortunately, he wasn’t the only unlucky one.

Brandon Roy regrettably missed out on Kevin Garnett but didn’t show much emotion during interviews.

Occasionally, he would glance at his new teammates.

The Portland Trail Blazers’ environment wasn’t good, so they had to stick together early to keep warm.

Adam Morrison was excitedly telling sports reporters about his excitement at that moment.

Hearing that he was picked by Michael Jordan, the Rookie was thrilled.

Rudy Gay, who was also highly anticipated, faced a dilemma.

After being selected by the Houston Rockets with the 7th pick, before he even had time to get acquainted with the team, Fegan, a reporter from the Houston Chronicle, broke the news that he had been traded.

Facing a crowd of sports media, Rudy Gay, while embracing his family, couldn’t help but cast a pleading look at his agent, Mark Bartelstein.

Mark Bartelstein, with a grim expression, just nodded slightly, indicating that he would find out, then turned his head and cursed under his breath in exasperation:

“Damn Carroll Dawson!”

The Nets selected Marcus Williams from the University of Connecticut, who had received the “Clay Lee Recognition Award.”

Reporters from New Jersey were beaming, as they had snatched him from their old rivals with the 21st pick.

Rajon Rondo, selected by the New York Knicks, looked bewildered.

Steve Novak, the 30th pick, was not present, so New York reporters gathered around this Rookie, looking at him curiously.

“Rondo, tell us about your basketball idol. How does it feel to come to New York to play?”

His draft template was Moochie Blaylock, and Rajon Rondo hadn’t even tried out for the New York Knicks.

For the past two months, he had been flirting with the Celtics, but now he was drafted by New York:

“Uh, I like Isiah Thomas. He’s an idol for all small players.”

Rondo answered dryly.

The sports reporters surrounding him instantly changed their expressions.

No wonder he was the 22nd pick.

Look at Chris Paul last year.

That was a true genius!

Not noticing the change in the atmosphere, a somewhat nervous Rajon Rondo continued to speak platitudes dryly:

“I’m very happy to join the defending champions. It’s my honor. I like Madison Square Garden. It’s a basketball mecca…”

It was too late to say good things.

Many people were no longer interested in interviewing this Rookie.

Isiah Thomas?

He didn’t sound like their kind of person.

Although he looked like a star, he would most likely be traded.

First impressions were important.

Last year, when everyone interviewed Chris Paul, this Rookie showed his admiration for Lee, mentioning more than once that he was a New York Knicks fan.

Now look at this one.

His words were clearly insincere, which didn’t fit the team culture.

Jordan Farmar, selected by the Lakers, was also surrounded by sports reporters.

He was happily showing off, holding up his phone and loudly saying:

“I received a text message from the 81-point scorer! God! This is incredible! This is the best way to start my professional career!”

“I’ve always wanted to stay and play in Los Angeles, and now my dream has come true.”

At this point, the broadcast was nearing its end.

Dan Patrick finally brought up the United States Mens National Basketball Team.

Coach Krzyzewski’s previous complaint that Clay Lee was not suitable for the team had been met with resistance from the New York Media.

The Champion Coach had stirred up a hornet’s nest.

If they didn’t win the gold medal this year, the New York fans would tear him apart.

“Clay, let’s talk about this year’s World Championship. Coach K believes the team shouldn’t revolve around you. What are your thoughts on that?”

Seeing a hint of schadenfreude on the other’s face, Lee didn’t hold back.

Wearing his headphones, he casually said:

“Basketball isn’t that complicated. It’s impossible to limit my performance by changing a rule, a basketball, or a court.”

“The reason for failure is simple: sheer lack of strength. There’s no need to make any excuses.”

“As for the core issue, there’s nothing to say. I do need to control the ball because I represent the system itself!”

“Eight championships are the best proof. My success isn’t accidental. Perhaps Coach Krzyzewski is right, but I’m not interested in participating in international competitions anymore.”

Dan Patrick nodded continuously.

A gold medal wasn’t difficult.

He agreed with Lee’s statement, but at the end, he couldn’t help but interrupt and ask,

“Lee, can you talk about why you’ve been refusing invitations from the United States Men’s National Basketball Team these past few years?”

“The reason is also very simple. I’ve been playing in the Finals. Now I want to spend more time with my family, and I also need to use the offseason to adjust my body.”

Lee answered simply, then thought for a moment and seriously added,

“If I miss the playoffs or the Conference Finals, then I will definitely respond to the recruitment!”

“…”

On Thursday, June 29th, the NBA Draft concluded, but the New York fans’ fun continued.

Every weekday from noon to 2 PM, WEPN-FM, as the radio station authorized by New York City Sports Broadcasting, was the favorite of taxi drivers on the road.

After Stephen A. Smith and his capable assistant Brandon Tier “defected” from Philadelphia, their careers have become increasingly popular in recent years with Lee’s help.

During working hours, their roars could always be heard on the radio, and “fancy praising Lee” was the core of this program.

Jose Barea, who came to New York alone, got into a taxi near Times Square.

The black driver happened to be listening to the program.

After getting in and giving the address, the Rookie was in a state of bewilderment.

“Ladies and gentlemen! I respect Coach Krzyzewski, he’s doing well in the NCAA!”

“But he shouldn’t question Clay Lee. Kobe? Who’s that? A guy who only stole championships because of Shaquille O’Neal, an imitator of Michael Jordan. Will he be better than Clay Lee?”

“Pre—pos—ter—ous! (Too absurd!)”

“He’s questioning the greatest player in history! He’s questioning the GOAT of basketball! Put away that ridiculous theory!”

“…”

After a series of passionate rants, the black young driver laughed heartily.

The terrible traffic in Manhattan even gave him time to wave his hand, clap along, and shout in agreement,

“Yeah! That’s right, that damn NCAA coach, who is he! How dare he point fingers at us!”

“Dude, are you a New York Knicks player participating in the Summer League? What do you think of Lee? Have you seen him play?”

“Breaking LeBron James’s ribs, knocking Dwyane Wade unconscious on the court, and we even blew out those softies from Dallas in the Finals!”

“The 10th championship, that’s so cool. I participated in the championship parade a few days ago. There must have been over a million people, confetti covered the streets, and it supposedly took an entire afternoon to clean up.”

“It’s a pity I couldn’t squeeze to the front of City Hall. Those sons of bitches, the police, occupied too many good spots back then!”

“You don’t look very tall, but please sign an autograph for me before you get off. Maybe you’ll also have a chance to become a big star in New York…”

Jose Barea was still in a state of bewilderment.

The program was too explosive, directly calling out names and blasting them.

Coming back to his senses and hearing the driver’s words, he quickly said,

“Uh, I just got drafted. I thought I’d go undrafted.”

“Who wouldn’t like the New York Knicks? Madison Square Garden, that’s the basketball mecca of the world.”

“I’ve always been a fan of Clay Lee. He changed modern basketball, and even a short guy can become a dominator. He’s always been my idol!”

Hearing the desired answer, the black young driver was satisfied.

He was a “noble New York fan,” and if the other party had said “no,” he would have been ready to throw the outsider out.

“Yes, no one can question us. How many championships do they have? Look at the clowns on the West Coast, they only take advantage.”

“The 81-point scorer, they actually played the Toronto Raptors until the fourth quarter. What’s so commendable about that?”

“Lee can easily score 100 points. Advanced stats, Wilt Chamberlain is not our opponent either.”

“…”

The readily available advanced stats made Jose Barea even more bewildered.

Coupled with the voice on the radio still blasting the gap between Kobe and Lee, the Rookie couldn’t connect and could only laugh along.

During the nearly hour-long car ride, Barea was bombarded by Stephen A. Smith’s voice, leaving him dizzy.

After getting out, he signed the driver’s notebook.

Looking at the quiet Tarrytown Training Center, Jose Barea took a deep breath, straightened the wrinkles on his pants, and embarked on his unknown journey with his bag.

The New York Knicks players entered the offseason and began their vacation, but the team staff still had to prepare for the offseason and Summer League.

On July 7th, the Las Vegas Summer League would officially begin.

Coach D’Antoni, who had already flown back to Italy for vacation, would not lead the team. Assistant coach Mike Malone would be the Head Coach for the team.

At the Tarrytown Training Center, the staff were busy.

Too many players were seeking work with the New York Knicks, and the training facility was overcrowded and operating beyond capacity.

Fortunately, the team had already made arrangements to receive the drafted players.

Jose Barea was led by a staff member to another office building, where he finally met the current person in charge of the team.

A 60th overall pick had no status.

The New York Knicks drafted Barea simply because the team had no one else to choose.

The office only had a large desk and a few chairs.

All around were team photos, and looking around, they were all group photos holding trophies.

Mike Malone, wearing a training uniform, occasionally cursed under his breath while looking at emails on his computer.

The work was a mess, and the new general manager’s drastic actions made him jump with fright.

After following the staff member to the office, Barea was a bit apprehensive.

Fortunately, Mike Malone didn’t let his emotions affect his actual work.

Looking at the Rookie in front of him, he couldn’t help but ask curiously,

“Didn’t your agent come with you? Even if it’s only a one-year contract, I suggest you find a professional.”

A late-round pick had no future, so Barea could only politely say,

“If I can stay with the team, I’ll call my agent.”

Knowing that the Puerto Rican short player in front of him was still playing in other leagues, Mike Malone looked at him and simply said,

“We noticed your performance at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament in Virginia. 41 assists, and 18 assists in a single game, that’s why the team chose you.”

“Of course, to stay with the team, you’ll also face competition. This year we also drafted Rajon Rondo, he’s a player from Kentucky University. Perhaps you’ve heard his name.”

“After the Summer League, if your performance is outstanding enough, we might offer you a two-year contract.”

“The New York Knicks have no salary cap pressure. Believe me, you’ll get more compensation here, but you’ll also need to work harder.”

Barea nodded and agreed immediately.

If he had gone undrafted, he would have had to ask his agent to help him find a team.

Now, being able to directly participate in the Summer League with the New York Knicks, this treatment was beyond his expectations.

After leaving the office and returning to the training facility, Barea saw his teammate, Steve Novak, who was drafted 30th overall, also looking worried.

The two adjacent full basketball courts were surrounded by players.

As soon as they stepped onto the court, everyone would just grab the ball and play, and arguments would even break out if conflicts arose.

Rajon Rondo, however, didn’t care about the atmosphere.

Although he was wearing a training uniform, for a long time he was just circling the Madison Square Garden, constantly looking at the championship banners around.

David Lee noticed their awkwardness and proactively approached them.

In a few days, he would also have to participate in the Summer League, so this was a way of greeting them in advance:

“Don’t mind the situation here. In fact, the players who will ultimately stay are those who were drafted.”

“The Summer League championship can’t be hung here. Everyone will have enough playing time then.”

Rajon Rondo glanced at David Lee, who had curly hair, then looked at the players who were working hard to perform, and finally said confidently,

“I am indeed better than them! I never doubt that.”

“I’m very interested in the Summer League championship. Follow me, and I can lead you to victory!”

Noticing the strange expressions on their faces, Rajon Rondo didn’t mind and instead pointed at the champion on the court, continuing,

“A championship is the best way to prove yourself. If you want more playing time, is there any better way than to defeat all your opponents?”

Steve Novak nodded along, seemingly thinking of something, and then whispered,

“You have a point. I’m good at shooting, and my three-pointers aren’t bad. I want to stay here forever.”

The training center, adorned with championship banners, truly allowed the Rookie to feel the winning culture.

Steve Novak was overjoyed when he learned he had been drafted.

It was a result he had never imagined.

Rajon Rondo still didn’t show much, merely patting his chest to indicate he understood.

Unlike the Rookies present, Rondo was worried.

If his goal was to be a starter, then his future was bleak.

He had absolute confidence in himself and didn’t want to be a bench player forever.

As for not getting playing time, Rondo had completely thrown that out of his mind.

Knowing that Derek Fisher would be leaving, he felt secure!

Suddenly, a new leader emerged, which left David Lee, who was standing by, dumbfounded.

He was supposed to be the Good Brother, but now he had to cooperate with the younger ones?

A feeling of displeasure welled up in David Lee’s heart.

He stopped looking at Rondo, greeted the others, and moved towards the weight training room, a proud expression on his face:

“Come with me. I’ll show you the team’s training facilities and dining area.”

“This is the best training center in the league, and you’re very lucky. This offseason, the equipment will be updated.”

Jose Barea silently followed the others, occasionally continuing to look around, the conspicuous championship banners also stirring some excitement in his heart:

“So this is what a championship team is like.”

On Saturday, July 1, as the United States Men’s National Basketball Team’s assembly date approached, the public also began to pay attention to the team’s movements.

LeBron James, who had once again lost in the Eastern Conference Semifinals this year, recently enjoyed a protagonist’s treatment.

Ever since Coach Krzyzewski praised his leadership abilities, the The Chosen One had become somewhat inflated.

Having played in the league for three years, LeBron James was no longer the Rookie he once was.

Under Lee’s influence, the Champion Coach’s halo also began to fade in his eyes.

The Cavaliers selected the explosive guard Shannon Brown with the 25th pick and then Daniel Gibson in the second round.

Although the team had reinforced its guard line, LeBron James was not satisfied, especially after hearing Larry Hughes complain to his former Washington Wizards teammates about his role on the team.

The The Chosen One then had a thought:

“I’ll trade you sooner or later!”

When interviewed by the Akron Beacon Journal, LeBron James did not reveal any desire to trade teammates.

Instead, he used the questions to seriously answer about next season:

“We’ve been successful these past two seasons. This year’s playoffs, the Cavaliers performed better than last year!”

“Next season, I hope to be more involved in the team’s work. I will work with the coach staff to design new tactics.”

After the related news was reported, the Cleveland fans didn’t notice anything, as Lee had also mentioned custom-made tactics at the draft combine not long ago.

But in the Champion Coach’s eyes, this was a blatant provocation!

Jeff Van Gundy and Tom Thibodeau were both workaholics and naturally paid attention to the draft combine immediately.

When they heard Lee’s words, the two bald men felt a mix of emotions.

Although this was an interesting anecdote, indicating mutual trust between players and the coach staff, Van Gundy didn’t see it that way.

He always felt that Lee was mocking his incompetence!

As soon as he thought of his past puppet-like situation, anger surged within Van Gundy.

He had done a lot of work, but no one cared about him.

The Cavaliers, currently preparing for the Summer League, were also very busy.

Although Van Gundy had delegated power, he still appeared in the training center at this time.

As the morning training session was about to end, Van Gundy couldn’t help but complain to Thibodeau beside him:

“This can’t go on. I’ve said it before, Lee lacks sufficient respect for coaches. We must warn LeBron James that he shouldn’t interfere with the coach staff’s work!”

Easier said than done, the already bald Thibodeau did not nod in agreement.

Looking at the energetic Shannon Brown, he finally whispered:

“It’s not necessarily a bad thing. We also need to respect the players’ opinions. Don’t forget, they are the ones who decide the game.”

Perhaps due to a lack of confidence, Jeff Van Gundy instinctively broadened the scope of his influence, saying righteously,

“We must establish the coaches’ authority. This is also for the sake of union members. No one wants to see players disrespect coaches. We cannot compromise!”

Perhaps due to the many criticisms in recent months, Thibodeau noticed that Van Gundy, next to him, had lost weight, and dark circles had reappeared under his eyes.

This image instinctively reminded him of the tough days when he was an assistant coach for the New York Knicks, as if nothing had changed, and they were still Pat Riley’s little followers:

“Jeff, we both know the privileges of superstars. What we need to do now is go a step further. Everyone must unite.”

“Danny Ferry is not Jim. He won’t give up his power. Our say in the team has already diminished a lot.”

Hearing Thibodeau mention the new general manager, Van Gundy became even more depressed.

The Cavaliers were no longer his sole domain.

Thinking of the powers that had been reclaimed, he finally said bitterly,

“Just losing one Eastern Conference Semifinals, some people have lost confidence in us. They seem to have forgotten that I am the architect of the New York Knicks dynasty.”

Without responding, Thibodeau watched the Rookies play hard while listening to Van Gundy’s complaints, and a strange premonition involuntarily arose in his heart:

“Perhaps our time in Cleveland is running out.”

On Saturday, July 1, although he couldn’t watch the games live, Lee still made a small fortune as the World Cup quarterfinals in Germany progressed.

Georgina, still hospitalized in Lenox Hill, looked at the two visitors and said in a muffled voice from her bed, “Why do you two look so happy? Is there more good news?”

Ivanka, wearing a white dress suit, subtly rolled her eyes at Lee, who was fiddling with fruit.

A sudden morning workout on the weekend had left her body feeling a bit weak:

“I’m planning to launch my eponymous jewelry line, and Clay also supports me. We’ll attend the MET GALA together next May. You’ll get better.”

Georgina, in her hospital gown, had injured her spine in the equestrian competition this time, and the injury was very serious. She knew her friend was comforting her, but she still said gloomily:

“My equestrian club just started, and I might not be able to compete anymore.”

“It might even be difficult to help you take care of the children. I feel pain even when I walk now.”

Looking at her dejected friend, Ivanka subtly nudged Lee beside her.

Feeling her right hand being held, her heart felt a little sweet.

“Don’t worry about the club’s operation. I will invest in it for you. I promise to God, this isn’t pity. To be injured in a competition, I know you truly love this sport.”

“From now on, we’ll practice with you together, and the club will expand.”

Hearing Lee’s assurance, Georgina regained her spirits.

She certainly wasn’t short on money, but the equestrian club was more about recognition.

A smile reappeared on her face, and she began to chatter non-stop with Ivanka.

Noticing that Lee had given them private space, Georgina pulled her friend closer and whispered something.

Seemingly hearing something outrageous, Ivanka glared at her, then whispered with a slight blush.

Noticing the two girls looking at him again, Lee remained calm, silently muttering to himself, and immediately felt much more at ease:

“Fortunately, I don’t believe in God. This isn’t pity, it’s value investment.”

….

By the way, don’t forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me 🙂

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep