NBA: Miracle Workers

Chapter 127 Impact MVP?

Since Sprewell bowed to the bald young coach, the Knicks are completely on the right track.

Even if Ewing is in poor condition and the starting lineup's scoring fluctuates, after the substitute lineup comes on, relying on excellent defense and "madman" scoring, the team can still maintain a lower score limit.

In back-to-back games against the Raptors, Ewing, who was in poor physical condition, took a break and the starting lineup failed to open up the score. After the bench lineup came on, they were also defeated by the opponent.

Vince Carter, who exploded in popularity, stopped completely when he met the Knicks for the first time in his career.

The Flyer has not yet adapted to the tough defense. He originally wanted to rotate the lineup and attack hard at staggered times. However, when he encountered Sprewell's leading defense, he simply went 4-for-0.
The outside was locked and he broke through to the inside. Facing the shrinking Kurt Thomas and Ben Wallace, Carter was pulled down before he could show off his dunking talent.

Coupled with the enthusiastic cheers from Madison Square Garden, Carter was completely lost on the night of the 16th.

Since defeating the Bulls, the Knicks have figured out a way to deal with these forward swingmen.

Block the top line and try to let the opponent break through in the baseline direction. Once close to the paint area, take decisive action!
Unless you can grasp the only mid-range, once you break through to the inside line, if your movement speed is not fast enough and you cannot dodge and move in the air, most of you will have to stop.
In the 4th quarter of the game, there was not much suspense in the game. Carter obviously wanted to vent his anger, but fell under the basket again.

On the Raptors' bench, John Wallace subconsciously pulled the corner of his mouth, and whispered to McGrady beside him:
"I can guarantee that if Carter keeps flying like this, the other party will be cruel!"

Since Carter completed a beautiful dunk in the opening game, he has never taken off again. McGrady said with some annoyance:
"This is not a basketball move at all!"

John Wallace didn't care about this, he pretended to be proud and whispered:
"Don't worry about the game. I'll show you the world after the game. Li is my good brother. When we were rookies, we even waved towels together on the bench!"

McGrady, who is still playing soy sauce on the bench, twitched his lips helplessly when he heard this.

He was tired of hearing John Wallace talk about his glamorous life in New York every day.
As the two sides completely switched to the atmosphere group, McGrady also got 3 minutes of playing time, and the game was completely over.

85:102, the Knicks successfully won 6 consecutive victories!

Although the schedule is indeed easy and the opponents are not strong, their 6-0 record allows the Knicks to lead the league.

The New York fans who were present no longer cared about the content of the game. No one cared about the poor state of the gorilla. As long as they can win the game, this is a good goal!

On the bench, Li You stood up and fist-bumped with his teammates who were coming off the field. John Wallace came over to say hello, laughing:

"Hey, Bro! I have a hunch that you will win the MVP this year!"

After Li You performed a complicated set of gestures with the other party, he patted his chest and said with a smile:
"I don't know if this year's selection rules will change. See you at the same place tonight!"

In the Madison Square Garden Arena, fans were shouting Li You's name loudly.

John Wallace looked at Li You with some envy and high-fived the fans. He was also a rookie, but he didn't even get the starting position.

Black players usually have a lot of followers around them. Even if they become big stars, they cannot forget their brothers.

Although Oakley now behaves like a wealthy man, he has not forgotten to take care of his own people.

An unbranded nightclub in Queens was converted from a warehouse. Many times, the Knicks would choose to come here to have fun, as they were taking care of Oakley's old brothers.

Everyone on the Raptors team who came here with John Wallace just felt like there were demons dancing around.

The chanting-like rap, the shouts of various civilizations, and the live music made the ears rumble.

Coupled with the "aroma" of some leaves, Carter and McGrady were quite uncomfortable.
It was close to midnight, but the atmosphere was extremely hot. There were only three black girls left on the dance floor, stimulating a group of people to keep shouting.

After turning two corners and arriving at a lounge, a woman's teasing laughter could be faintly heard.

As soon as they entered the door, Carter and McGrady saw everyone playing ball, and they were immediately confused.
John Wallace was not surprised and asked everyone to sit down. He casually hugged a half-empty black girl and said loudly with a smile:

"Charles's territory is absolutely safe and secure. Damn it! This season's schedule is too tight. Let's relax tonight!"

Oakley was drinking heavily at this time. On the other side, Li You was holding a cigar, one black and one white hanging on his body. Looking far away, he could see Larry Johnson holding a black girl in his arms and constantly exploring and studying.
The scene of the silver party made McGrady's eyes go straight, and Carter also felt quite uncomfortable. He always felt that all the chicks in the room wanted to eat him.

Oakley, who was in a good mood, hugged the little black girl next to him and greeted John Wallace and others on the other side loudly:

"Come and have a few drinks. I'll pay the bill tonight. Here, just let go and have fun!"

Marcus Camby wanted to participate deeply in the Silver Party, but most of the Raptors maintained their image as a serious person and couldn't let go for a while.

McGrady looked at the pile of wine in front of him in a daze for a moment, and subconsciously said:

"Uh, I'm not old enough to drink yet!"

Hearing this response, Oakley suddenly grinned and said loudly to Li You who was enjoying a cigar:

"Listen to what this little guy is saying, Lee, that's the difference between them and you!"

"Fake! You have to drink. If you don't drink, you won't give me face!"

Li You hugged the two chicks, and at this time also smiled and said casually to the Raptors:
"Don't get me wrong, Charles just wants everyone to relax. Don't worry, there will be good wine tonight, so you don't have to worry about hangovers!"

As another batch of half-finished chicks came in, music began to play in the lounge, and the atmosphere soon became heated.

McGrady and Carter were almost knocked unconscious. The girl who could participate in this party knew it well and kept rubbing against the two of them.

As long as you cook the rice and give birth to a child, you can easily make a lot of money!
On the morning of the 17th, at the Tarrytown Training Center, just after the video class ended, Oakley couldn't help but complain in a low voice:
"Shet! Two useless weaklings!"

Last night, the two newbies drank too much and were eventually escorted back to the hotel. Several chicks who were related to Oakley didn't succeed.

After Ewing returned to New York, he became a good family man. Although he felt itchy, he did not participate in the activities at this time.

After the video class ended, Jeff Van Gundy stood in front and clapped his hands and encouraged:

"Kurt and Ben have performed very well in these games. We just need this kind of defense. If we keep it up, no one will be our opponent this season!"

Assistant coach Thibodeau also clapped his hands to show encouragement.

The current age structure of the Knicks is actually very good. Kurt Thomas is 26 years old and Ben Wallace is 25 years old. Both insiders are getting older.

Although Denis Scott on the forward line has declined and his performance on the defensive end is average, he can also contribute four or five points on the offensive end.

In this case, as long as Sprewell uses his scoring ability, the coaching staff does not have to worry about the rotation of the lineup.

One person who can throw is paired with two people who can grab, and Chris Childs on the outside is responsible for controlling the rhythm. After the team got on track, this lineup became more and more stable.

Ewing seemed to feel that his performance was too high, so he took the initiative to speak out during lunch time:

"My body has almost recovered, and I can return to my previous game rhythm in the following games."

Although the Knicks played a lot in transition, the offense was never complete without the participation of Gorilla compared to last season.

Since he was about to leave for Cleveland in the afternoon, Gorilla's words were obviously intended to show off in front of Sean Kemp.
Li You did not expose Ewing's little thoughts and responded immediately:

"Staying healthy is the most important thing. There are 3 games in March, Pat. We have enough time to get back in shape."

Everyone also spoke out to comfort Ewing. Although Sean Kemp on the opposite side has also gained some weight, his condition is still slightly better than that of the gorilla.

The New York media praises Gorilla every day, and the title of "the league's best center" may have eluded Ewing again.

Sprewell remained silent. Although he accepted the status of substitute, he was still unhappy and rarely participated in such daily chats.
On February 2, the Knicks, who flew to Cleveland, suffered their first defeat of the season.

Sean Kemp, who also gained weight, performed very well, constantly attacking the inside and getting to the free throw line.

Ewing's body couldn't keep up with the reaction, and he fouled out early in the fourth quarter and left the game.

After being penalized 33 times by their opponents, the Knicks failed to withstand the 1-point rain and regrettably lost.

Of course, the loss was also related to the fluctuation in Li You’s state:
出场40分钟，19中8，三分线外5中0，罚球6中5，拿到21分5篮板11助攻3失误；

No three-pointers were recorded, so Li You's record of consecutive three-pointers in the regular season ended at 127 games.

Although he lost, major sports media reported on Li You's outrageous record.

The New York media even more confidently declared:
"No one will break this record in the next 10 years!"

After the loss, the Knicks flew to Philadelphia overnight, and then they had to play a back-to-back game with the 76ers.

Due to the lockout, the All-Star Game originally planned to be held in Philadelphia was eventually canceled.

In this regard, Allen Iverson was the most depressed. He also wanted to win an AMVP at his home court!

Among the rookies in 96, although Iverson has been fishing, major sports media unanimously believe that he will be the first to catch up with Li You's achievements.The 76ers have continued to strengthen this season, and with the blessing of the famous coach Larry Brown, the team has been on the right track since the start of the season.

After McNair retired, the most popular players in the Eastern Conference are Li You and Iverson.

Although Grant Hill and Anfernee Hardaway are still in their prime, they feel like they have expired.
Hook and Reebok are also competing in the ring. Currently, Li You's signature shoes are selling well, but Iverson's are not bad either!

The two sponsors worked hard behind their backs, and the well-appointed media naturally waved their flags and shouted.

Perhaps due to Li You's influence, Iverson began to play the 2 position this season. Eric Snow, who joined the 76ers last year, completely established himself and became the team's starting point guard.

Larry Brown did have two tools, and he built an original "four guarantees and one" lineup for Iverson in advance.

In the starting lineup, the forwards are George Lynch and Theo Ratliff, and the center is Matt Geiger.

Before the game started, 76ers team reporter Stephen A-Smith also specially interviewed Li You.

This die-hard Knicks fan currently relies on Iverson for a living. Most of the columns cover this person, and interviews with Li You mostly ask questions as a Knicks fan.

In the visiting team's locker room, many media gathered in front of Li You, and the signature shoes in the away color were particularly eye-catching.

In front of the seats, a McDonald's new beef burger was artificially placed.

There is also a small Under Armor logo on the white compression garment.

Compression clothing and arm guards are already necessary items for "equipment dogs". At least on New York street courts, those who like to pretend to be X are indispensable for these equipments.
Before the start of each game, there is an advertising session for Li You. From the moment you enter, you will be covered in sponsor products from head to toe.

"Lee, there are only 50 games this season. In March and April, the schedule will be very tight. Do you think the Knicks can successfully defend their title?"

After Stephen A. Smith asked the question, some reporters in Philadelphia looked strange:
"A traitor among us?"

During the Knicks championship parade, Li You had a lot of exchanges with this person. The two were superficial friends. When he heard the other person's question, he immediately answered confidently:

"The Knicks have an excellent rotation, and Kurt and Ben will contribute their energy on the defensive end every night."

"Sprewell is a scorer who combines offense and defense. Even if the schedule is intensive, the Knicks will not be affected in any way with their current deep lineup."

“I think we will successfully defend our title this year!”

On the other side of the home team's locker room, the New York media was digging holes for Allen Iverson:
"The 76ers are on the right track and have played a different game since the start of the season!"

"Allen, can you tell me what you think of this season's MVP?"

Iverson, who had already grown his hair and started to dress hip-hop, didn't notice anything wrong. When he heard the question, he immediately answered with a smile and confidence:

"MVP? I like MVP! I will challenge for this award this year."

"I will lead the 76ers to the finals. We have run in successfully, and it's time for Philadelphia to show its talents!"

"."

Before the game started, the First United Center was already filled with 76ers fans.

Since Iverson joined the team, the demand for tickets has basically exceeded the supply. Even if he fishes continuously, there will be fans buying tickets to support him.

In addition to the game between the Spurs and the Lakers that night, the showdown between the Knicks and the 76ers attracted even more attention.

"Defense! Defense! Defense!"

Although they have always been beaten by the Knicks in the past, the enthusiastic Philadelphia fans did not care about this and shouted loudly after Ewing succeeded in jumping the ball.

Eric Snow didn't wait until halftime to lead the defense on Li You after the start of the game. Iverson was in front of Alan Houston and also shouted to his teammates to complete the defensive matchup.

In the last game, Ewing, who was pulling in the low post, didn't want the ball at the start, and took the initiative to go to the top of the key to perform a high pick-and-roll.

Li You, who was holding the ball in his right hand, noticed that the opponent's center Matt Geiger was already following him. While shaking his body to the right, he quickly changed direction with his hips. The moment he switched to his left hand, he immediately circled behind him.

A simple shake, combined with Ewing's screen, allowed Eric Snow, who was leading the defense, to slide and hit the gorilla.

Just a little slower, Li You immediately got rid of the defense with the ball in his right hand.

Facing the huge delay of Matt Geiger at the three-point line, Li You quickly in and out, shaking his body forward while quickly retreating laterally.

Before the two defenders could catch up, Li You quickly combined the ball and made a sudden jump shot from outside the three-point line!

"Shua!" The three-pointer hit the net hollowly!

On the Knicks' bench, Matt Geiger was seen stunned in place, and everyone in the atmosphere team yelled and threw their towels.

Eric Snow only felt that Li You was shaking too fast and lost his defensive position. In the blink of an eye, the ball went in.

Thinking again about Larry Brown suggesting that he take a look at Li You's touch before the game, Eric Snow immediately cursed secretly:
"Hell's Projection"

It seemed that it was no different from the past. There were huge boos again, followed by cheers for the home team.

The 76ers' offensive routine is currently very simple. It refers to the Knicks' offense and also allows Iverson to go to the line and cross.

It's just that the Knicks have played this routine for two seasons, and Alan Houston is very familiar with it. At the top of the arc, Li You suddenly made a move when Eric Snow was about to pass the ball.

This caused the opponent to subconsciously pass the ball outward. Iverson sensed something was wrong and was about to bounce the ball further, but Alan Houston got in front of him and stole the ball away.

After stealing the ball, Alan Houston threw the ball directly towards the half court. Li You picked up the ball and put it down with his left hand and rushed forward.

Ignoring Eric Snow, who was chasing him to his side, he rushed up in the paint with three strides against the defense, jumped up and leaned against the opponent in the air, grabbed the ball with one hand with his left hand, leaned forward and picked up the basket!

"Shh!"

There were boos at the scene. Eric Snow slapped the ball with great force in frustration. After the aerial confrontation, he did not move at all. He could only watch Li You score easily.

The game quickly fell into the Knicks' offensive rhythm, and Larry Brown discovered that Iverson had become a defensive weakness.

For several consecutive rounds, Alan Houston would post up for the ball in the left and right blocks, and then use his height advantage to post up Iverson.

Once he reaches a deeper position, Alan Houston will even catch the ball and turn directly toward the baseline to complete a fadeaway jumper.
Coupled with the excessive delay of the line and frequent breakthroughs by Li You, the Knicks scored consecutively easily.

After his teammates continued to hit the ball, Iverson stopped passing the ball. This time the offense was also cross-cutting. He caught the ball neatly on the right wing and scored two points with a drift jumper.

Cheers just erupted from the scene. Li You quickly advanced and reached the top of the arc. Ewing and Oakley came to the left and right elbows at the same time.

Eric Snow was still moving backwards, preparing to squeeze through the screen, when Li You suddenly threw the ball to the upper right side of the basket.

Larry Johnson had just been backing up in the right block near the paint area, and suddenly turned around and cut to the basket.

When the ball arrived, Larry Johnson grabbed the ball from the air and then completed a powerful slam dunk with both hands!
"Boom!" The empty catch dunk was successful!
At 13:4, the Knicks once again expanded their lead, and head coach Larry Brown reluctantly requested a timeout.

With 1 minutes and 6 seconds left in the first quarter, the 54ers fans present at the First United Center lost their emotions.

Except for George Lynch who hit a long two-pointer, the 76ers were bang bang bang, and no third person scored.

Jeff Van Gundy on the sidelines was in a good mood, everyone returned to the bench, and they just didn't say too much and continued to hang up!

After the timeout, Iverson stepped up his offense, but his off-ball movements were always disrupted by Alan Houston.

It's hard to hit the ball and attack, and it will end up being a singles attack on the wing.
Seeing that Oakley also received a pass from Li You at the right elbow of the free throw line and hit a mid-range jumper, Bob Costas said helplessly in the NBC commentary box:

"The strength gap between the two teams is quite disparate. Obviously, Iverson alone cannot defeat the Knicks."

When Doug Collins saw that the 76ers were in a scoring drought, he also sighed:

"This is the difference between the 76ers and the championship team. In terms of details on both offense and defense, Lee firmly controlled the rhythm of the game. The Knicks did better!"

This game, which was broadcast live across the United States, ended as soon as it started.

At 28:11, the 76ers fans at the scene were stunned.

Iverson, who scored 7 points on 3-of-7 shooting, came back to the bench with his lips pursed, a face drawn, eyes wide open and he patted the seat angrily.
Thinking about his remarks about MVP before the game, Iverson finally realized the malicious intent of the New York reporter:

"Aiming for MVP? It doesn't seem to be an easy thing."

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(End of this chapter)