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***

On July 9, 2006, football fans following the World Cup in Germany began to anticipate the final, while for NBA fans, the offseason gossip was more interesting.

In the Round of 16 match between Italy and Australia, “the great Italian left-back Grosso” successfully broke through.

Meanwhile, football fans in the United States also had a good experience, as Lee transformed into a “football expert,” guiding a large number of gamblers!

To some extent, football is more charming. In the quarterfinals, England lost to Portugal in a penalty shootout.

Clay Lee predicted that Lampard and Gerrard might miss their penalties, and this was later confirmed one by one.

After that, in the third and fourth-place playoff, Lee not only predicted the result but also guessed the score before the match, which directly thrilled the gamblers!

Compared to previous broadcasts, ABC Sports’ viewership surged after Lee took over, and no one switched to ESPN’s Spanish channel next door.

It turns out that many people who follow the World Cup are gamblers, and it’s the same all over the world.

Ever since Lee predicted that the final might go into a penalty shootout, American cloud fans were buzzing again.

“Follow Clay Lee’s picks, and your villa will be by the sea.”

In short, the World Cup final suddenly became a huge hit in the United States, while their counterparts at Sky Sports in the UK frequently complained and even blamed Clay Lee for their team’s loss.

The United States Mens National Basketball Team, who had already flown to Las Vegas to prepare for training camp, were not focused on the football matches.

Recently, Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony had verbally agreed to large contracts worth $80 million over 5 years, which made many players envious.

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas has been particularly lively recently, as it is not only the training ground for the United States Mens National Basketball Team but also the venue for the Summer League games.

The Thomas & Mack Center and Cox Pavilion attract a large number of fans every day, and the afternoon game between the New York Knicks and the Cavaliers even drew LeBron James and a few others.

There are also big-name stars in the Summer League.

Amare Stoudemire participated in this year’s games, even playing 30 minutes in the last game, announcing his return with excellent physical condition.

However, the Phoenix Suns’ record was mediocre, while the New York Knicks were very strong this year, winning their first two games by large margins, and the Cavaliers didn’t seem to be a match either.

Sitting in the front row, LeBron James occasionally stood up and applauded.

He had recovered from his fractured rib, and his face was beaming with a confident smile.

Coach Krzyzewski would most likely grant him the captaincy, which made LeBron James overjoyed.

From another perspective, he had gained an advantage:

“The affirmation of a Hall of Fame coach, Clay Lee hasn’t achieved this feat!”

Dwyane Wade, who had recovered from his concussion, was not interested in such a game.

Carmelo Anthony, next to him, occasionally teased Chris Paul, who was currently the trio’s bag-carrying junior.

“80 million, LeBron, you wouldn’t refuse such a contract, would you!”

With their entourages around them, Dwyane Wade spoke with fewer reservations, tugging at the gold chain around his neck, seemingly saying, “This is a lot of money.”

Carmelo Anthony, with his braided hair, didn’t wait for LeBron James to speak and immediately took over, pouting and saying pointedly:

“I know what he’s thinking. This guy has always been imitating Clay Lee. He doesn’t want to sign a long-term contract. He wants to wait for the next collective bargaining agreement.”

Chris Paul noticed Rajon Rondo directing traffic on the court, watching him fake a pass and then truly pass, assisting David Lee for an easy dunk under the basket, and immediately cheered.

LeBron James, who had re-seated himself, glanced at his friend beside him and didn’t deny his intentions.

Instead, he added:

“I’ve always advised you to sign a short contract. After the team option ends, we can make flexible choices. Do you want to play in Denver forever?”

Before Carmelo Anthony could respond, Dwyane Wade’s eyes widened, and he said in a surprised whisper:

“Are you thinking of leaving Cleveland? Don’t tell me you’re really considering that?”

Agent Leon Rose had not returned the media’s calls, and LeBron James still hadn’t given a verbal agreement.

The The Chosen One indeed had other thoughts.

“I’m not thinking of leaving. I’m more thinking of recruiting you guys to play in Cleveland. Chris, what do you think?”

LeBron James turned to look at Chris Paul, who was focused on the game.

The latter didn’t react much to the question, only casually responding:

“I still prefer New Orleans. You know, the pace of life here is great.”

Chris Paul was destined to be with the Hornets for the next few years and didn’t want to actively request a trade.

After all, Head Coach Scott and the team management had already designated him as the core, and he didn’t intend to betray that trust.

As a good friend, Dwyane Wade still hoped that LeBron James would sign a long-term contract, as one injury could change a player’s career:

“I still think signing for 5 years is better. Anyway, the last year is a player option, and if an injury happens, we’ll still have a lot of money.”

Noticing the camera lens, Carmelo Anthony waved friendly, seemed to think of something suddenly, then suddenly became envious, turning his head and muttering in a low voice:

“Damn World Cup! I don’t know what’s so good about it. Now no one pays attention to us anymore. These reporters only report on Clay Lee’s news.”

A burst of cheers suddenly erupted in the Arena.

Jose Barea, who came off the bench, drove to the basket and completed a 2+1.

Dwyane Wade looked at the leading New York Knicks and completely lost his mood.

Chris Paul was still cheering.

LeBron James, noticing his friend’s silence, didn’t pick up the conversation again, but secretly made a resolve:

“I should also buy some shares in Premier League teams.”

On Monday, July 10, the World Cup in Germany concluded.

Italy ended its fate of losing three previous World Cup penalty shootouts, and Zinedine Zidane’s headbutt on Marco Materazzi ended his career.

Just as Lee predicted, the regular time ended in a draw, and extra time also failed to decide the winner.

In the penalty shootout, Italy lifted the World Cup trophy with a 6:4 victory.

Having made a small profit, Lee finally had some time off.

He threw aside his team duties and returned to Peninsula Manor to sunbathe with the girls.

As the moratorium was about to end, LeBron James, who still hadn’t given a verbal agreement, once again became the subject of heated discussion among basketball commentators.

Schwartz, active in the free agency market, praised LeBron James’s team’s signing strategy and, at the same time, once again spoke out for his client, Paul Pierce:

“Paul is a very competitive person. He has spent his entire career in Boston.”

“If the Celtics want to pursue a championship, they must add a second superstar!”

The Boston Herald had recently stopped reporting on the team’s pursuit of Allen Iverson, which seemed to officially announce the collapse of that trade.

The 76ers needed to find another buyer.

The United States Mens National Basketball Team likes to bring a Rookie to international competitions.

JJ Redick, drafted by the Orlando Magic, was famous nationwide during his time at Duke, but this time, due to a back injury, he ultimately failed to try out.

That afternoon, the news that surprised onlookers was that Dwyane Wade suddenly changed his mind.

After agreeing to a long-term contract, he suddenly changed his mind and sought a short-term contract.

Considering LeBron James’s previous actions and their relationship, news of them potentially teaming up appeared in various sports media reports.

Stephen A. Smith, who was originally scheduled for Sunday morning’s SportsCenter, appeared on the show again that evening, seizing the opportunity to follow up on the hot topic and show off his insider information:

“Nike hopes LeBron will leave Cleveland. He needs to play in a big city like Clay Lee!”

“And Dwyane Wade’s decision was also influenced by his good friend. We all know the friendship between them. Without a doubt, they have already started discussing the possibility of teaming up.”

Dan Patrick looked at his serious partner with some helplessness.

He really couldn’t comment on such unverified news:

“Will Dwyane Wade go to Cleveland? From a playing style perspective, I think it would be difficult for the two to team up.”

“Shaquille O’Neal is still competitive. Although they lost in the Eastern Conference Finals again, Wade still has a chance to win a championship. In terms of record, the Cavaliers are the team in trouble.”

Stephen A. Smith shook his head, and as the director showed Head Coach Van Gundy’s agitated coaching during this year’s playoffs, he once again offered his opinion:

“I respect Head Coach Jeff Van Gundy. He led the Knicks to four consecutive championships. He is the youngest Champion Coach in NBA history!”

“But basketball is evolving, and Head Coach Van Gundy can no longer keep up with the changes in the NBA.”

“Stopping in the semifinals for two consecutive years is a good result, but we also need to note one problem: they have never won against the defending champions.”

“If the Cavaliers continue to falter in the future, perhaps LeBron James will choose to leave. Now I hope Dwight Howard can fulfill his talent. Perhaps he can change the team’s situation.”

While internally exclaiming how outrageous it was, Dan Patrick also felt that these words seemed to make some sense, but he rarely got involved in gossip, so he could only cooperate and say:

“No matter who leaves, this will be big news. This short-term contract might change the landscape of the NBA in the future.”

“.”

The next morning, Wade also enjoyed protagonist treatment.

The sudden change in his contract sparked much speculation, but he did not accept interviews, as the future is still uncertain.

Not content to be left out, Carmelo Anthony, in an interview with the Denver Post, made a big splash by actively recruiting Allen Iverson:

“Many people misunderstand Allen Iverson. I participated in the Olympics with him, and I know exactly what kind of player he is.”

“Everyone always mocks him for never defeating Clay Lee, but that’s just a coincidence, and the regular season doesn’t say much.”

“With no disrespect to other players, look at Iverson’s teammates. They are not championship pieces. I am willing to team up with him, and we can succeed!”

It was revealed early on that the Nuggets had a 6-for-1 trade in mind, but ultimately, the two sides failed to reach an agreement.

Anthony’s active signal this time seemed to have been authorized by the management.

The once again faded Allen Iverson suddenly regained popularity.

Denver fans seemed to have high hopes for this scoring champion, and everyone began discussing how the two teaming up would win a championship.

That afternoon, a reporter from the Philadelphia Inquirer confirmed the trade.

The 76ers would cut their losses and trade Allen Iverson, with the Denver Nuggets as the trade partner.

The trade details were quickly exposed: the Nuggets sent Andre Miller, Ruben Patterson, and two 2007 first-round draft picks to the 76ers for Allen Iverson!

Compared to the previous 6-for-1, the trade shrank somewhat.

Allen Iverson’s value was depreciated after being beaten by Lee in the playoffs, and the Eastern Conference couldn’t even find a taker.

As the second major trade of the offseason, the onlookers had a blast.

Allen Iverson himself hadn’t spoken yet, but his wife, Tawana, once again cried:

“Allen has been abandoned. We have lived in Philadelphia for many years, and he gave everything for this city, only to receive this result in the end.”

“The children need to move, need to transfer schools, go to a strange city, and make new friends. We don’t want to go through this.”

“.”

On the 12th, the Philadelphia Inquirer truthfully reported the trade and Tawana’s tearful plea.

In the photo, Allen Iverson’s eldest daughter was also crying.

The Son of Philadelphia finally left the team.

Allen Iverson’s entourage had expected fans to protest and plead for him to stay, but after the newspaper was released that morning, the city had no reaction.

No one sympathized with them.

In their emotional state, the entourage even went to the stadium and loudly yelled, “You will regret this!”, only to be eventually expelled by security personnel.

This behavior, on the contrary, made the onlookers laugh.

The NBA also announced a piece of news that morning:

“The salary cap for the 2006-07 season is $53.135 million, the luxury tax threshold is set at $65.42 million, and the mid-level exception is $5.215 million.”

At 12 PM, the moratorium ended, and teams could begin signing free agents and making trades.

The free agency market officially opened.

The Knicks proceeded with their previous trades as planned.

The team will form a twin-tower lineup next season, and the New York Media once again gave high praise on television programs:

“Knicks, champions!”

The Timberwolves also immediately announced the signing of point guard Mike James to a four-year, $25 million contract.

For this trade, the Minnesota sports media also gave high praise:

“James will now form a strong backcourt with Rookie Randy Foye and veteran Ricky Davis!”

“They will help MVP Kevin Garnett win a championship!”

The San Antonio Spurs also announced their first trade, signing Jacque Vaughn to a minimum contract.

This trade was mocked by the San Antonio Express-News, which showed no mercy to the home team:

“It’s terrible. This doesn’t solve the bench problem at all.”

Cavaliers fans finally saw the long-awaited news: LeBron James re-signed with the team on a four-year contract, with a player option for the 2010-11 season.

LeBron James’ team also shared signing photos.

Head Coach Jeff Van Gundy and team owner Gilbert were both present, and the three posed for a photo in front of the contract.

Attentive fans naturally noticed that Wade also signed a short-term contract, which sparked much speculation.

Perhaps there will indeed be changes in the future.

The Lakers also did not disappoint their fans.

In addition to the mid-level exception they had previously sent out, they also welcomed back Champion Guard Derek Fisher!

After two seasons of experience, Old Fish had become a 3-time Champion Guard, surpassing Kobe Bryant in championships.

For this signing, the Los Angeles Times sang praises for the team:

“While Kobe Bryant can certainly motivate teammates on the practice court, Derek Fisher is the most suitable locker room leader for the team.”

“This signing will put the team back on track. Derek Fisher is a true Laker!”

Old Fish went to the Knicks to ride their coattails for the past two years, and now that he has returned to the team, fans no longer criticize him, treating it as if he went to learn skills.

Not just Derek Fisher, but also Matt Barnes from the Knicks tested the free agency market.

He quickly received offers from the Lakers and the Warriors.

Although his destination is not yet confirmed, he is highly likely to leave the team.

Free agent Glen Rice was ultimately signed by the Atlanta Hawks for 2 years and $7.5 million.

The stingy San Antonio Spurs were only willing to offer $1.25 million, regretfully missing out on a Champion Center.

As a championship team, the New York Knicks had a relatively young roster and no inflated contracts, but during this renewal, they were still targeted by opponents with malicious price increases.

In the afternoon, at the Tarrytown Training Center, the new General Manager, Donnie Walsh, looked at the Milwaukee Bucks’ offer with some helplessness.

Gadzuric, 4 years and 25 million US dollars.

The New York Knicks have not yet decided whether to match this inflated contract.

Steve Mills, who is responsible for team operations and administration, had no suggestions.

Not having been given the General Manager position, this Black executive has once again adopted a hands-off approach to New York Knicks business, waiting for opponents to make mistakes.

Glen Grunwald, Assistant General Manager, assists in managing basketball operations.

Grunwald, a lawyer by profession, also did not interfere with the new General Manager, acting as if this offer did not exist.

One disappeared with a folder, while the other pushed up his glasses at his desk and continued staring at the computer.

In the entire office, only Jeff Nix, a veteran who had worked for the team for 15 years, was contemplating the issue.

He finally offered a subtle suggestion:

“Perhaps we can ask Clay. The team can absorb some inflated contracts. Dan has performed quite well. At least he is a qualified rotational player.”

The team’s public relations director, Barry Watkins, glanced at his colleague, then quietly left the office.

This matter was not his to handle, and if trouble arose in the future, he wouldn’t take the blame.

Jeff Nix had consistently spoken up for the team during the previous harassment case, earning him great favor with fans and the owner.

He had previously worked in the coaching staff, and although he is currently an Assistant General Manager, he holds high prestige internally.

Wearing a New York Knicks training uniform, Jeff Nix had his short brown hair neatly combed.

After offering his suggestion, he looked earnestly at the new General Manager.

His face and neck were equally thick.

Sensing that the other party seemed to be awaiting his response, Donnie Walsh felt a bit displeased, always feeling that the person before him was challenging his authority:

“I will match this offer. The team must ensure roster depth next season.”

Donnie Walsh gave a direct answer without consulting Lee.

If he were to compromise on this, he would become the laughingstock of the entire management the next day.

Without saying anything more, Jeff Nix smiled and nodded, indicating that he also supported the decision.

In fact, he knew that the other party wanted to keep Anderson Varejão more, but Mark Bartelstein’s forced insertion of a player disrupted the original plan.

Inefficient Rookies like JR Smith were originally not even considered.

On the first day the free agency market officially opened, Donnie Walsh felt that the New York Knicks were a mess.

The attitude of the staff here was off.

Completely different from what was expected, after James Dolan gracefully passed the buck and left, all the executives in the office suddenly adopted a hands-off approach, entering a state of “no work, no mistakes.”

What made Donnie Walsh feel fortunate was that the team had signed Tayshaun Prince in advance, which was a valuable asset left to him by his predecessor.

It was almost time to leave work, and no other issues arose.

Donnie Walsh felt a bit tired: an uncontrolled three-team trade and an inflated matching offer.

The New York Knicks seemed to be developing on their own, and this team, from top to bottom, was shaped by Clay Lee.

Recalling their previous meeting, where he had promised to bring back Ray Allen, Donnie Walsh suddenly realized he had spoken too soon.

Getting this All-Star would present more difficulties:

“I hope no one interferes with my work.”

On July 13th, the United States Mens National Basketball Team training camp officially began, and the 24 players selected for the preliminary roster would enter the “elimination round.”

That afternoon, the New York Knicks played their last opponent in the Summer League.

With an 85:67 victory over the Washington Wizards, they finished with a 5-0 record, surpassing the Houston Rockets to win the championship!

This event also had a trophy.

Rajon Rondo, David Lee, Steve Novak, and Jose Barea, along with the hype squad, happily raised the cup!

Mike Malone experienced Mike D’Antoni’s feelings in a few games.

The “AFK flow” indeed could win a championship.

This was the New York Knicks’ first Summer League championship.

When interviewed by the New York Media, Mike Malone praised the players’ performance and also offered his prediction:

“I am proud of the New York Knicks’ scouts. The future will prove that we were the biggest winners in this year’s draft!”

“Jose performed very well. He will get a contract, and he will be a member of the New York Knicks next season.”

Barea, who had not yet officially signed with the team, was very excited to receive the coach’s assurance.

Unlike Rondo, a first-round pick, he could be cut by the team at any time.

When interviewed, the short player was particularly happy and proactively said:

“I will be the hardest-working player on the team. I want to stay with the New York Knicks. Clay Lee is my idol, and I want to play alongside him. It’s my honor!”

“…”

Barea truly “wanted to improve too much.”

His blatant flattery made Rondo secretly frown.

As an absolutely confident player, he had no interest in being a “sycophant.”

Rajon Rondo felt a bit disdainful of the Puerto Rican’s performance.

A bootlicker wants to play in the NBA, and wants to stay on a championship team?

The Thomas & Mack Center was still very lively at this time.

Fans were surrounding David Lee.

In these few games, the white big man displayed his offensive talent, always able to put the ball into the basket from under the rim.

Noticing Rondo leaving with his head held high, David Lee, who was signing autographs for fans, slightly frowned, feeling very annoyed:

“What’s that bag-carrying Rookie so proud of?!”

Lee, who was preparing to fly to Los Angeles, had already boarded his pre-booked Gulfstream private jet.

He was just joining the fun at this year’s ESPYs.

These awards no longer held any appeal for him.

After boarding the plane and just sitting down, Mark Bartelstein, who was accompanying him, began cursing about the recent troublesome events:

“Damn trade! Damn lawsuit! Going to Dallas for an away game, getting caught with women. Shit, no wonder Kwame Brown always fumbled the ball in the playoffs!”

“This guy talks a good game but rarely acts. He only remembers me when problems arise. How did Michael Jordan ever see anything in him?”

The flight attendant responsible for this flight was a long-legged blonde.

Recently, Lee had face blindness, seeing everyone as the succubus from his home.

After being kissed, Lee came to his senses and patted her butt, which made the girl giggle and throw a seductive glance before slowly walking away:

“Didn’t the prosecution already drop the charges? Don’t worry about these small things. Remember to keep an eye out for defensive players for me.”

His first attempt at a trade wasn’t very successful.

Although the New York Knicks cooperated fully, trading away Anderson Varejão and a first-round pick still made Mark Bartelstein feel a bit bad:

“This time it’s my fault. If JR Smith’s performance doesn’t meet expectations, I’ll take responsibility for the follow-up work.”

Lee leaned back in his seat and nodded.

He didn’t have too high expectations for this Rookie who was already addicted to Manhattan nightlife:

“He should be able to handle the scoring role.”

….

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Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep