warrior godfather
Chapter 605 Kawhi, You Are Too Simple
Chapter 605 Kawhi, You Are Too Simple
May 5, 3:07pm, Oakland, Oracle Centre.
In half an hour, the game between the Warriors and the Grizzlies is about to start. In the locker room of the home team, the Warriors players are making final pre-match preparations.
"Stephen, what does it feel like to be the unanimous MVP?" Green put on his sneakers and asked loudly.
Curry and Green are separated by Clay. He is seriously tying the ankle brace on his left leg. Hearing this, he raised his head and said with a smile:
"It's good, but no matter how many votes you get, you can't become two mvp, so that's it."
"Hehe, you will be beaten for saying that." Clay put on his jersey and curled his lips.
"It's a pity that the mvp cannot be given to others, otherwise I will give you one, and Drummond one..." Curry straightened up, patted Clay, and said with regret.
Clay shook his shoulders, dodged his hand, and said in disgust:
"Whoever wants your mvp, I will take it myself in the future!"
Green laughed:
"I don't mind. I'll exchange dpoy with you. This is definitely something you will never get in your lifetime."
Antetokounmpo came over:
"Stephen, I don't want mvp, just give me a scoring champion."
Zhang Yu accurately controlled Xiao Hua's psychology. Although the referees came with a mission, they would not endlessly favor the Grizzlies. On teams with low value.
Curry noticed this and laughed:
At this time, they have to be replaced and come up again in the fourth quarter, so as not to receive two more fouls and be sent off directly, and the two are afraid of receiving more fouls, so they will stay on the court timidly.
The Grizzlies' Randolph's offense was stable, and it was difficult for others to score. The Warriors' three-pointers fluctuated, the outside line was inaccurate, and their offensive efficiency declined severely.
The Warriors didn't have an easy shot from the outside, so they hit the inside more, mainly because of Curry's breakthrough and Leonard's mid-range shot.
But his assists are not too many, because the Warriors' defensive focus is on the inside of the Grizzlies. After he and Gasol pick and roll, Asik is squatting, giving Conley room to shoot. Conley is not relentless and seizes the opportunity. .
Jeff Green's three-point shooting percentage in the first round was only 26.8%. Today, he made 7 of 2 three-pointers and still feels cold.
……
Dennis explained patiently:
"No, it's not enough. Curry has 20 shots and Thompson has 17. Your shots are still too few."
"Kawhi, congratulations on getting the best first defense, you will definitely be selected to the best team next season!"
But Zhang Yu withstood the pressure, just didn't change players, and told Asik and Green to let go of their hands and feet to defend, and don't be afraid to make moves.
However, the series is not over yet. In the post-match interview, Jogel spared no effort to encourage the team's fighting spirit:
全场比赛下来,勇士全队三分球40中18,在三分线上得到了54分,比三分25中8的灰熊高出30分,最终以113:95大胜灰熊,大比分2:0领先。
The Grizzlies' offensive style based on the inside is slow and their scoring efficiency is low. Their defense has not changed much. Conley is an excellent perimeter defender, but Gasol and Randolph are still unable to defend.
"But I am very happy now, uncle, I have signed a big contract, we have been winning, just broke the record of the Bulls, and we still have to compete for the championship, the boss also values me very much, and arranged for me a lot of singles It’s no big deal if you don’t make the All-NBA team…”
"I think I've taken quite a few shots..." Leonard touched his head.
库里全场只投进了3记三分球,两分球却是11中7,罚球9中9,砍下32分8助攻5篮板2抢断,得分占全队三分之一还多。
"Okay!" Dennis was a little angry, "Is he your uncle, or am I your uncle? He is for your own good, or am I for your own good?"
But the Warriors can still create shooting opportunities by relying on frequent pick-and-rolls and screens.
Leonard hesitated for a moment, then nodded.
Conley's three-pointer and second breakthrough can punish the Warriors to go short, and the Warriors can only reduce the pincer attack on Gasol and Randolph.
Dennis sighed softly:
"Kawhi, you are too simple, this is not the point, now you can't compete with Curry, but you can already compete with Thompson, Green and Asik don't have much possession of the ball, other substitutes can't threaten you , only Thompson is in competition with you, and your possession of the ball must be on par with him."
……
Zhang Yu's decision is very risky. If Asik and Green continue to receive fouls, the Warriors will have no one to use inside.
"But uncle, these are all tactics arranged by the boss. At the beginning, the boss took a fancy to me. It took me a long time to train me before I could sign such a big contract. If it wasn't for the boss, I might just be a blue-collar worker now. Now this is really good, I am very happy, if my ability is strong enough, the boss will definitely give me more possessions..."
No matter what happens in the future, the playoffs are the most important thing. The boss values me so much. I must not drag my feet on the court. I must win the championship!
If the Warriors are now 0:2 behind, then Xiao Hua's order to the referee may be to ensure that the Warriors win at all costs, because the league cannot afford the loss of the Warriors' second-round exit.
In the positional battle, his passing was just right, allowing Gasol and Randolph to receive the ball comfortably, and organized the Grizzlies' offense in an orderly manner.
With Conley absent, the Grizzlies have no offensive starting points outside, and can only rely on Gasol and Randolph to launch offenses in the low post.
But seeing Clay win two best third teams, especially seeing Green win the best defensive player, best third team, and best first defense in one season, Leonard has a strange feeling in his heart.
Asik's restriction on Gasol is very good. Olynyk came up to give Gasol points, and Antetokounmpo had 4 fouls early on. It would be better to keep Green who also committed 4 fouls. At least he can stand up to Randolph.
"I really don't know what those reporters think. Kawhi's efficiency is so high and his defense is so good, he was not selected to the best team!" Antetokounmpo complained for Leonard.
Leonard opened his mouth, not knowing how to answer.
On May 5, in the anticipation of all Grizzlies fans, Conley returned to the game wearing a mask.
"That's right, we all won 74 wins, and only three were selected to the best team, which is too little!" Green was also very dissatisfied.
"Really? Is your friend reliable?"
I often walk by the river without getting my shoes wet. If I shoot too many three-pointers, there will be a day when I hit the iron.
"You and Thompson do not have a tactical conflict, but there are only a few best teams. This time the Warriors won 74 wins and have three best team spots, but it is impossible to win 70 every year in the future, and there will be 3 more. Is there a quota? Green is a blue-collar worker, it is impossible to be selected consecutively, you and Thompson can only be selected for one, if he is successfully selected, you will not be selected."
On November 5, the Warriors challenged the Grizzlies away.
After Clay made 6 of 1 three-pointers in the first half, he made 8 of 6 three-pointers in the second half and 14 of 7 three-pointers in the game. He scored 21 points and scored 53 points with Curry, accounting for six of the team's points. into more than.
After Antetokounmpo entered the league, Leonard taught him a lot of defensive skills. The two trained very hard and often practiced together. The relationship is very good.
Moreover, Dennis played NCAA at University, and later worked in the middle management of large companies such as American Express, Carver Federal Reserve, and JPMorgan Chase. He is the most accomplished person in the Leonard family. Leonard is very convinced by him, no matter the big things For small things, Leonard will do what Dennis says.
"Uh, uncle, it's not that Stephen can't beat Anthony Davis, he just followed the boss's tactics, first attracting the defense, and then distributing the ball..." Leonard explained.
"Mike's comeback has brought a very positive impact. Although we lost this game, this is not the end. We will return to the home court soon, and we will regain our strength in Memphis..."
After the death of his father as a teenager, Dennis took good care of him and essentially assumed the role of father.
In the Warriors locker room, Leonard came back to his senses and found that Green was calling his name. He looked up and saw Zhang Yu holding a tactical board, standing in the middle of the locker room, looking at him:
"Kawhi, why are you in a daze? The Grizzlies start today at the third position with Jeff Green. I have arranged a special tactic for you. Others will involve the Grizzlies' formation and create a one-on-one for you against Jeff Green. His defense is mediocre, but remember, try to complete the offense in the middle distance, Gasol's frame protection is very strong, and there is a risk of hitting the basket..."
"The boss arranged a lot of ball-handling singles tactics for me. Clay always moves without the ball. There is no conflict between me and him..."
On May 5, the Warriors and the Grizzlies played their fourth game.
Seeing that his uncle was angry, Leonard didn't dare to speak.
Curry, Clay, and Leonard all shot more than 40% of their three-pointers, and Green, Middleton, Dinwiddie, Danny Green, Olynyk and other shooters above the league average. The firepower was so fierce that the Grizzlies couldn't resist.
加索尔勇敢地承担起了球队领袖的职责,在勇士严密的夹击下,砍下19分10篮板6助攻1封盖1抢断,但命中率只有36.8%。
Several people were joking with each other, and the atmosphere in the locker room was very relaxed, without the tension and seriousness of the upcoming battle.
He only entered the league one year later than Clay and Green, but he has only been selected to the All-Defensive Team twice, once on the second defense, once on the first defense, and a worthless first-team rookie, what other honors? I couldn't get it.
Watching Curry discussing MVP, watching Clay discussing the best team, watching Green discussing the best defensive player, it is impossible to say that Leonard is not envious.
"Who told you? The Trail Blazers lineup is pretty good. There's no need to dismantle the team, right?"
Conley was absent, and the Grizzlies couldn't even find a serious point guard, couldn't play pick-and-rolls, and tried their best to pass the ball to the inside. Gasol was forced to mention the high-post support organization many times, which greatly weakened the Grizzlies inside. attack.
Zhang Yu adopted the same strategy as in the record-breaking battle, flanking Gasol and Randolph, and shorting Jeff Green, the most inaccurate of the Grizzlies, and received miraculous results.
"I can't say that. If it gets out, he will have to turn against me, but he probably won't lie to me. He often complained to me before that the Blazers team is not good. The internal management is very chaotic, especially the medical team, which is very unprofessional. , he didn't want to stay in the Blazers for a long time..."
In his heart, both Zhang Yu and Dennis are very important, but if he has to choose one, Dennis who loves him like a father is more important...
Curry scowled and said:
"Giannis, you are still young, if you want to get it yourself, you can't get it for nothing..."
After G2 ended, Grizzlies fans were completely desperate.
Leonard became more confused the more he listened, and asked:
"Kawhi, and I never wanted you to fall out with Ronan, I just want you to increase the possession of the ball, as you said, as long as you are strong enough, Ronan will definitely not turn a blind eye, you So efficient, I believe he will agree to give you more possessions. Now all you need to do is to play well and play your best performance, so that I can have more confidence and ask the team..."
Dennis smiled with satisfaction:
"That's right... Kawhi, be confident, you will definitely become a superstar, and what I want to do is to help you reach this height as soon as possible. Remember, everyone in this world has their own interests. Others will treat you well, but the fundamental purpose is still for yourself, only if your relatives consider you wholeheartedly, and do as I say, you can maximize your interests..."
After Clay recovered his touch in the second half, the Warriors picked up momentum, and the point difference was about to be widened, but at this moment, the referee stepped forward, and Gasol and Randolph got the whistle for several low-post singles. The Grizzlies bit the point difference, and Asik and Green also got into foul trouble, all with 4 fouls.
"Why am I lying to you, he is playing for the Trail Blazers!"
This is an iron fight. The Warriors shrink the inside, the Grizzlies can't make three-pointers from the outside, Gasol is difficult to score under the attack, and Conley's three-pointer also fluctuates. Only Randolph is in the matchup with Green. Gained an advantage.
"why?"
Leonard didn't seem to have any opinion on this, he just smiled, shook his head, and continued to do his own thing.
Although the Grizzlies have an advantage in the interior, it is difficult for the Warriors to hit the basket, scoring 15 points less than the Grizzlies in the interior, but relying on the advantages of three-pointers and mid-range scoring, they finally won easily.
But now, the Grizzlies do not have Tony Allen, and the perimeter defense has declined seriously. Curry is stronger. Leonard is an absolute strength that is far stronger than Barnes. Curry has 27 points and Clay has 21 points , Leonard 22 points, the three made a total of 11 three-pointers, scoring 70 points together, the Grizzlies' perimeter defense completely collapsed, and the brave soldiers won the game without bloodshed.
The Grizzlies team made 18 of 4 three-pointers, and Conley made two, accounting for half of the team. This is why the Warriors unscrupulously pinched Gasol and Randolph.
In these three games, Randolph averaged 17.4 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. He is the No. [-] scorer in the Grizzlies, but his efficiency is much higher than that of Gasol.
"Kawhi, do you know why you didn't make the All-NBA team?"
Looking at the smiling Clay and Green, Leonard couldn't help but think of the conversation he had with his uncle Dennis after the league announced the best lineup.
"I'm not talking about Curry. He is a superstar, but why does Thompson take more shots than you? He can only play off the ball. He played against the Pelicans in the last round. If you didn't stand up when Curry was guarded Come out, how could the Warriors win so easily? You shouldn't have fewer shots than him!" Dennis said firmly.
This game reversely proved Conley's importance to the Grizzlies. His three-pointers and organization are indispensable for the Grizzlies.
Jogel has tried every means to slow down the pace of positional warfare, reduce unnecessary conduction of the ball, the most is the internal and external connections, and reduce the risk of mistakes. Nice effect.
He made a layup in the last 30.4 seconds of the fourth quarter, widening the point difference to 4 points, and then steadily hit 4 tactical foul free throws, keeping the 4-point advantage.
Dennis also saw Leonard's resistance, and eased his tone:
In the last game, the Warriors missed a three-pointer, which is a very rare situation, but the Grizzlies missed a three-pointer, but it is a common occurrence.
This is the first time the Warriors have had this situation in the playoffs, but it is also an inevitable phenomenon after a large number of three-pointers are shot.
The Warriors' record against the Grizzlies in the regular season is 3 wins and 0 losses, and they have not lost a game, giving the Warriors a great psychological advantage.
The fans prayed for Conley's early return. In the post-match interview, Jogel emphasized the impact of Conley's absence on the team, as if as long as Conley returned, the Grizzlies would definitely be able to beat the Warriors.
……
Leonard listened carefully to Zhang Yu's tactics, nodded frequently, and buried Dennis' words deep in his heart.
"Stephen is the scoring leader of the 180 club, and his shots are already few enough..."
Randolph only scored 12 points. He was also closely flanked by the Warriors. He only took 10 shots and hit 5 goals. The efficiency is good, but the output is very low.
The others didn't take it seriously, and continued to chat enthusiastically.
Only Courtney Lee and Calathes had relatively stable three-pointers on the outside of the Grizzlies, but the Warriors did not give them open opportunities. The two had good efficiency, but they only made 3 three-pointers in total.
Conley's return also failed to usher in a victory, but lost even worse, and the Grizzlies had no choice.
"Hey, Leonard, what are you thinking? The boss is calling you!"
"Shut up!" Dennis said bitterly, "4 years and 6000 million is also called a big contract? Not even a maximum salary! Are you willing to be the third offensive option on the court all the time? You can only sign if you are selected to the best team." You can get more endorsements with a maximum salary, and I'm doing this for your own good!"
The Grizzlies' offense stagnated in the third quarter. The Warriors seized the opportunity, grabbed the rebound and pushed hard, counterattacked, and opened the point difference to more than 15 points in one fell swoop.
Needless to say, Curry has 6 MVPs, 3 scoring champions, 4 best first teams, and 4 fmvps in 2 years. He is already a top ten superstar in history and a true legend. Leonard never thought of it compared with him.
"Have you heard? A friend of mine told me that the Blazers seem to be going to make a big move and maybe dismantle the team..."
Everyone chatted enthusiastically about gossip about other teams, like company employees talking about changes in other departments, no different from ordinary people.
"Because you have too few ball possessions and not enough data to look good! Look at your shooting percentage, 50.6% shooting, 42.3% three-pointers, 88.5% free throws... Your efficiency is so high, but you only take 14 shots per game. If You can take more shots, 20+ is not a problem, and you can definitely be selected for the best team."
"So you have to have more possessions and get more points than Thompson. Those reporters don't look at how efficient you are and how good your defense is. As long as Thompson has 22 points and you have 18 points, they will only Vote for Thompson, so you're not going to be in the All-NBA line against another team's front line, but Thompson, get it?"
The Grizzlies' inside offense was blocked and the outside line was inaccurate. The team made 25 of 6 three-pointers. On the other hand, the Warriors made 32 of 15 three-pointers. The ratio of the two teams scoring outside the three-point line was 45:18. The Warriors are more than enough 27 points.
But he made the right bet. Although Asik and Green quickly received the fifth offender, the referee returned to normal and did not send them off directly.
While everyone was chatting and laughing, Leonard sat silently in his seat, arranging his jersey and sneakers, without saying anything.
In the first half, the Grizzlies made 7 of 1 three-pointers. Zhang Yu made adjustments during the intermission. After the start of the third quarter, the Warriors shrunk a few rounds. become bold.
Originally, in this round of the series, Tony Allen's biting caused a lot of trouble for Curry, and the Warriors' interior defense was not good enough, allowing Randolph to shoot 50% of his shots. Only then eliminated the Grizzlies with a big score of 4:2.
Curry is the only stable scorer for the Warriors. The Grizzlies deliberately blocked his three-pointers, so he broke through more inside to score and supported the Warriors' offense.
He didn't know if what Dennis did was right or wrong, but he believed that his uncle would not harm him.
But this time, Leonard had a different idea:
……
Leonard silently watched his teammates gossip, and when he heard something interesting, a smile appeared on the corner of his mouth, but his heart was full of thoughts.
There was no suspense in the first game between the Warriors and the Grizzlies. After the opening, the Warriors quickly established a lead of about 10 points, which was maintained until the end of the game, and finally defeated the Grizzlies 112:97, a big score of 1:0 take the lead
Conley made his comeback in the first round, but he played 5 minutes in G35 with the Trail Blazers. After the game, he felt pain in his face again and missed today's game.
When the whole team misfired, Splash still stood up.
He lived up to the expectations of his teammates and fans. He made 12 of 8 shots, 6 of 3 three-pointers, 4 of 3 free throws, scored 22 points and 3 assists, and was the best player in the Grizzlies.
Leonard finally understood what Dennis meant, hesitated for a moment, and said:
After the Warriors won G3, the morale that the Grizzlies had finally built up plummeted, and they no longer had the will to resist.
Antetokounmpo's defense against Randolph is also not good. He does not suffer from height, but his foot is not stable enough. Randolph has advantages in strength and confrontation, and can easily create shooting space. It is better to let Green went to defend.
Although Asik still got the sixth foul in the last 2 minutes of the fourth quarter, the game was already at the last moment, Gasol's physical fitness declined, and the new force Olynik came on the field, able to withstand his impact and wait until the teammate's attack came. , The Warriors' defense was not affected.
He is the kind of insider that Green is most afraid of encountering. He has height and shooting. Green does not suffer much in confrontation, but it is difficult to interfere with his shots.
But Leonard couldn't make a shot from the middle distance. He wanted to break through to the basket to score, but Gasol blocked two of them, and then died down.
Conley played a good game in G2, and only scored 3 points in G12. He was also in poor form today. He made 15 of 4 shots and only scored 10 points.
Conley's performance was very impressive, even supernormal, but it still couldn't help the Grizzlies beat the Warriors.
At the end of the third quarter, the Warriors had the ball in their hands. With 2.5 seconds left, Leonard sent a baseline ball. Curry took two steps after receiving the ball. Seeing that time was running out, he pushed hard inside the Warriors' three-point line , The basketball flew over half of the court, and under the gaze of everyone, it fell into the net after the red light came on.
At this moment, the audience fell silent. The Warriors surrounded Curry and celebrated wildly. Curry himself was very excited and danced.
This goal widened the point difference to 18 points and completely destroyed the Grizzlies' fighting spirit.
In the fourth quarter, the Grizzlies did not make any resistance, and the point difference was maintained until the end of the game. The Warriors beat the Grizzlies by 108 points 84:20, completed the sweep with a big score of 4:0, and successfully advanced to the Western Conference Finals!
Make up for today.
(End of this chapter)
May 5, 3:07pm, Oakland, Oracle Centre.
In half an hour, the game between the Warriors and the Grizzlies is about to start. In the locker room of the home team, the Warriors players are making final pre-match preparations.
"Stephen, what does it feel like to be the unanimous MVP?" Green put on his sneakers and asked loudly.
Curry and Green are separated by Clay. He is seriously tying the ankle brace on his left leg. Hearing this, he raised his head and said with a smile:
"It's good, but no matter how many votes you get, you can't become two mvp, so that's it."
"Hehe, you will be beaten for saying that." Clay put on his jersey and curled his lips.
"It's a pity that the mvp cannot be given to others, otherwise I will give you one, and Drummond one..." Curry straightened up, patted Clay, and said with regret.
Clay shook his shoulders, dodged his hand, and said in disgust:
"Whoever wants your mvp, I will take it myself in the future!"
Green laughed:
"I don't mind. I'll exchange dpoy with you. This is definitely something you will never get in your lifetime."
Antetokounmpo came over:
"Stephen, I don't want mvp, just give me a scoring champion."
Zhang Yu accurately controlled Xiao Hua's psychology. Although the referees came with a mission, they would not endlessly favor the Grizzlies. On teams with low value.
Curry noticed this and laughed:
At this time, they have to be replaced and come up again in the fourth quarter, so as not to receive two more fouls and be sent off directly, and the two are afraid of receiving more fouls, so they will stay on the court timidly.
The Grizzlies' Randolph's offense was stable, and it was difficult for others to score. The Warriors' three-pointers fluctuated, the outside line was inaccurate, and their offensive efficiency declined severely.
The Warriors didn't have an easy shot from the outside, so they hit the inside more, mainly because of Curry's breakthrough and Leonard's mid-range shot.
But his assists are not too many, because the Warriors' defensive focus is on the inside of the Grizzlies. After he and Gasol pick and roll, Asik is squatting, giving Conley room to shoot. Conley is not relentless and seizes the opportunity. .
Jeff Green's three-point shooting percentage in the first round was only 26.8%. Today, he made 7 of 2 three-pointers and still feels cold.
……
Dennis explained patiently:
"No, it's not enough. Curry has 20 shots and Thompson has 17. Your shots are still too few."
"Kawhi, congratulations on getting the best first defense, you will definitely be selected to the best team next season!"
But Zhang Yu withstood the pressure, just didn't change players, and told Asik and Green to let go of their hands and feet to defend, and don't be afraid to make moves.
However, the series is not over yet. In the post-match interview, Jogel spared no effort to encourage the team's fighting spirit:
全场比赛下来,勇士全队三分球40中18,在三分线上得到了54分,比三分25中8的灰熊高出30分,最终以113:95大胜灰熊,大比分2:0领先。
The Grizzlies' offensive style based on the inside is slow and their scoring efficiency is low. Their defense has not changed much. Conley is an excellent perimeter defender, but Gasol and Randolph are still unable to defend.
"But I am very happy now, uncle, I have signed a big contract, we have been winning, just broke the record of the Bulls, and we still have to compete for the championship, the boss also values me very much, and arranged for me a lot of singles It’s no big deal if you don’t make the All-NBA team…”
"I think I've taken quite a few shots..." Leonard touched his head.
库里全场只投进了3记三分球,两分球却是11中7,罚球9中9,砍下32分8助攻5篮板2抢断,得分占全队三分之一还多。
"Okay!" Dennis was a little angry, "Is he your uncle, or am I your uncle? He is for your own good, or am I for your own good?"
But the Warriors can still create shooting opportunities by relying on frequent pick-and-rolls and screens.
Leonard hesitated for a moment, then nodded.
Conley's three-pointer and second breakthrough can punish the Warriors to go short, and the Warriors can only reduce the pincer attack on Gasol and Randolph.
Dennis sighed softly:
"Kawhi, you are too simple, this is not the point, now you can't compete with Curry, but you can already compete with Thompson, Green and Asik don't have much possession of the ball, other substitutes can't threaten you , only Thompson is in competition with you, and your possession of the ball must be on par with him."
……
Zhang Yu's decision is very risky. If Asik and Green continue to receive fouls, the Warriors will have no one to use inside.
"But uncle, these are all tactics arranged by the boss. At the beginning, the boss took a fancy to me. It took me a long time to train me before I could sign such a big contract. If it wasn't for the boss, I might just be a blue-collar worker now. Now this is really good, I am very happy, if my ability is strong enough, the boss will definitely give me more possessions..."
No matter what happens in the future, the playoffs are the most important thing. The boss values me so much. I must not drag my feet on the court. I must win the championship!
If the Warriors are now 0:2 behind, then Xiao Hua's order to the referee may be to ensure that the Warriors win at all costs, because the league cannot afford the loss of the Warriors' second-round exit.
In the positional battle, his passing was just right, allowing Gasol and Randolph to receive the ball comfortably, and organized the Grizzlies' offense in an orderly manner.
With Conley absent, the Grizzlies have no offensive starting points outside, and can only rely on Gasol and Randolph to launch offenses in the low post.
But seeing Clay win two best third teams, especially seeing Green win the best defensive player, best third team, and best first defense in one season, Leonard has a strange feeling in his heart.
Asik's restriction on Gasol is very good. Olynyk came up to give Gasol points, and Antetokounmpo had 4 fouls early on. It would be better to keep Green who also committed 4 fouls. At least he can stand up to Randolph.
"I really don't know what those reporters think. Kawhi's efficiency is so high and his defense is so good, he was not selected to the best team!" Antetokounmpo complained for Leonard.
Leonard opened his mouth, not knowing how to answer.
On May 5, in the anticipation of all Grizzlies fans, Conley returned to the game wearing a mask.
"That's right, we all won 74 wins, and only three were selected to the best team, which is too little!" Green was also very dissatisfied.
"Really? Is your friend reliable?"
I often walk by the river without getting my shoes wet. If I shoot too many three-pointers, there will be a day when I hit the iron.
"You and Thompson do not have a tactical conflict, but there are only a few best teams. This time the Warriors won 74 wins and have three best team spots, but it is impossible to win 70 every year in the future, and there will be 3 more. Is there a quota? Green is a blue-collar worker, it is impossible to be selected consecutively, you and Thompson can only be selected for one, if he is successfully selected, you will not be selected."
On November 5, the Warriors challenged the Grizzlies away.
After Clay made 6 of 1 three-pointers in the first half, he made 8 of 6 three-pointers in the second half and 14 of 7 three-pointers in the game. He scored 21 points and scored 53 points with Curry, accounting for six of the team's points. into more than.
After Antetokounmpo entered the league, Leonard taught him a lot of defensive skills. The two trained very hard and often practiced together. The relationship is very good.
Moreover, Dennis played NCAA at University, and later worked in the middle management of large companies such as American Express, Carver Federal Reserve, and JPMorgan Chase. He is the most accomplished person in the Leonard family. Leonard is very convinced by him, no matter the big things For small things, Leonard will do what Dennis says.
"Uh, uncle, it's not that Stephen can't beat Anthony Davis, he just followed the boss's tactics, first attracting the defense, and then distributing the ball..." Leonard explained.
"Mike's comeback has brought a very positive impact. Although we lost this game, this is not the end. We will return to the home court soon, and we will regain our strength in Memphis..."
After the death of his father as a teenager, Dennis took good care of him and essentially assumed the role of father.
In the Warriors locker room, Leonard came back to his senses and found that Green was calling his name. He looked up and saw Zhang Yu holding a tactical board, standing in the middle of the locker room, looking at him:
"Kawhi, why are you in a daze? The Grizzlies start today at the third position with Jeff Green. I have arranged a special tactic for you. Others will involve the Grizzlies' formation and create a one-on-one for you against Jeff Green. His defense is mediocre, but remember, try to complete the offense in the middle distance, Gasol's frame protection is very strong, and there is a risk of hitting the basket..."
"The boss arranged a lot of ball-handling singles tactics for me. Clay always moves without the ball. There is no conflict between me and him..."
On May 5, the Warriors and the Grizzlies played their fourth game.
Seeing that his uncle was angry, Leonard didn't dare to speak.
Curry, Clay, and Leonard all shot more than 40% of their three-pointers, and Green, Middleton, Dinwiddie, Danny Green, Olynyk and other shooters above the league average. The firepower was so fierce that the Grizzlies couldn't resist.
加索尔勇敢地承担起了球队领袖的职责,在勇士严密的夹击下,砍下19分10篮板6助攻1封盖1抢断,但命中率只有36.8%。
Several people were joking with each other, and the atmosphere in the locker room was very relaxed, without the tension and seriousness of the upcoming battle.
He only entered the league one year later than Clay and Green, but he has only been selected to the All-Defensive Team twice, once on the second defense, once on the first defense, and a worthless first-team rookie, what other honors? I couldn't get it.
Watching Curry discussing MVP, watching Clay discussing the best team, watching Green discussing the best defensive player, it is impossible to say that Leonard is not envious.
"Who told you? The Trail Blazers lineup is pretty good. There's no need to dismantle the team, right?"
Conley was absent, and the Grizzlies couldn't even find a serious point guard, couldn't play pick-and-rolls, and tried their best to pass the ball to the inside. Gasol was forced to mention the high-post support organization many times, which greatly weakened the Grizzlies inside. attack.
Zhang Yu adopted the same strategy as in the record-breaking battle, flanking Gasol and Randolph, and shorting Jeff Green, the most inaccurate of the Grizzlies, and received miraculous results.
"I can't say that. If it gets out, he will have to turn against me, but he probably won't lie to me. He often complained to me before that the Blazers team is not good. The internal management is very chaotic, especially the medical team, which is very unprofessional. , he didn't want to stay in the Blazers for a long time..."
In his heart, both Zhang Yu and Dennis are very important, but if he has to choose one, Dennis who loves him like a father is more important...
Curry scowled and said:
"Giannis, you are still young, if you want to get it yourself, you can't get it for nothing..."
After G2 ended, Grizzlies fans were completely desperate.
Leonard became more confused the more he listened, and asked:
"Kawhi, and I never wanted you to fall out with Ronan, I just want you to increase the possession of the ball, as you said, as long as you are strong enough, Ronan will definitely not turn a blind eye, you So efficient, I believe he will agree to give you more possessions. Now all you need to do is to play well and play your best performance, so that I can have more confidence and ask the team..."
Dennis smiled with satisfaction:
"That's right... Kawhi, be confident, you will definitely become a superstar, and what I want to do is to help you reach this height as soon as possible. Remember, everyone in this world has their own interests. Others will treat you well, but the fundamental purpose is still for yourself, only if your relatives consider you wholeheartedly, and do as I say, you can maximize your interests..."
After Clay recovered his touch in the second half, the Warriors picked up momentum, and the point difference was about to be widened, but at this moment, the referee stepped forward, and Gasol and Randolph got the whistle for several low-post singles. The Grizzlies bit the point difference, and Asik and Green also got into foul trouble, all with 4 fouls.
"Why am I lying to you, he is playing for the Trail Blazers!"
This is an iron fight. The Warriors shrink the inside, the Grizzlies can't make three-pointers from the outside, Gasol is difficult to score under the attack, and Conley's three-pointer also fluctuates. Only Randolph is in the matchup with Green. Gained an advantage.
"why?"
Leonard didn't seem to have any opinion on this, he just smiled, shook his head, and continued to do his own thing.
Although the Grizzlies have an advantage in the interior, it is difficult for the Warriors to hit the basket, scoring 15 points less than the Grizzlies in the interior, but relying on the advantages of three-pointers and mid-range scoring, they finally won easily.
But now, the Grizzlies do not have Tony Allen, and the perimeter defense has declined seriously. Curry is stronger. Leonard is an absolute strength that is far stronger than Barnes. Curry has 27 points and Clay has 21 points , Leonard 22 points, the three made a total of 11 three-pointers, scoring 70 points together, the Grizzlies' perimeter defense completely collapsed, and the brave soldiers won the game without bloodshed.
The Grizzlies team made 18 of 4 three-pointers, and Conley made two, accounting for half of the team. This is why the Warriors unscrupulously pinched Gasol and Randolph.
In these three games, Randolph averaged 17.4 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. He is the No. [-] scorer in the Grizzlies, but his efficiency is much higher than that of Gasol.
"Kawhi, do you know why you didn't make the All-NBA team?"
Looking at the smiling Clay and Green, Leonard couldn't help but think of the conversation he had with his uncle Dennis after the league announced the best lineup.
"I'm not talking about Curry. He is a superstar, but why does Thompson take more shots than you? He can only play off the ball. He played against the Pelicans in the last round. If you didn't stand up when Curry was guarded Come out, how could the Warriors win so easily? You shouldn't have fewer shots than him!" Dennis said firmly.
This game reversely proved Conley's importance to the Grizzlies. His three-pointers and organization are indispensable for the Grizzlies.
Jogel has tried every means to slow down the pace of positional warfare, reduce unnecessary conduction of the ball, the most is the internal and external connections, and reduce the risk of mistakes. Nice effect.
He made a layup in the last 30.4 seconds of the fourth quarter, widening the point difference to 4 points, and then steadily hit 4 tactical foul free throws, keeping the 4-point advantage.
Dennis also saw Leonard's resistance, and eased his tone:
In the last game, the Warriors missed a three-pointer, which is a very rare situation, but the Grizzlies missed a three-pointer, but it is a common occurrence.
This is the first time the Warriors have had this situation in the playoffs, but it is also an inevitable phenomenon after a large number of three-pointers are shot.
The Warriors' record against the Grizzlies in the regular season is 3 wins and 0 losses, and they have not lost a game, giving the Warriors a great psychological advantage.
The fans prayed for Conley's early return. In the post-match interview, Jogel emphasized the impact of Conley's absence on the team, as if as long as Conley returned, the Grizzlies would definitely be able to beat the Warriors.
……
Leonard listened carefully to Zhang Yu's tactics, nodded frequently, and buried Dennis' words deep in his heart.
"Stephen is the scoring leader of the 180 club, and his shots are already few enough..."
Randolph only scored 12 points. He was also closely flanked by the Warriors. He only took 10 shots and hit 5 goals. The efficiency is good, but the output is very low.
The others didn't take it seriously, and continued to chat enthusiastically.
Only Courtney Lee and Calathes had relatively stable three-pointers on the outside of the Grizzlies, but the Warriors did not give them open opportunities. The two had good efficiency, but they only made 3 three-pointers in total.
Conley's return also failed to usher in a victory, but lost even worse, and the Grizzlies had no choice.
"Hey, Leonard, what are you thinking? The boss is calling you!"
"Shut up!" Dennis said bitterly, "4 years and 6000 million is also called a big contract? Not even a maximum salary! Are you willing to be the third offensive option on the court all the time? You can only sign if you are selected to the best team." You can get more endorsements with a maximum salary, and I'm doing this for your own good!"
The Grizzlies' offense stagnated in the third quarter. The Warriors seized the opportunity, grabbed the rebound and pushed hard, counterattacked, and opened the point difference to more than 15 points in one fell swoop.
Needless to say, Curry has 6 MVPs, 3 scoring champions, 4 best first teams, and 4 fmvps in 2 years. He is already a top ten superstar in history and a true legend. Leonard never thought of it compared with him.
"Have you heard? A friend of mine told me that the Blazers seem to be going to make a big move and maybe dismantle the team..."
Everyone chatted enthusiastically about gossip about other teams, like company employees talking about changes in other departments, no different from ordinary people.
"Because you have too few ball possessions and not enough data to look good! Look at your shooting percentage, 50.6% shooting, 42.3% three-pointers, 88.5% free throws... Your efficiency is so high, but you only take 14 shots per game. If You can take more shots, 20+ is not a problem, and you can definitely be selected for the best team."
"So you have to have more possessions and get more points than Thompson. Those reporters don't look at how efficient you are and how good your defense is. As long as Thompson has 22 points and you have 18 points, they will only Vote for Thompson, so you're not going to be in the All-NBA line against another team's front line, but Thompson, get it?"
The Grizzlies' inside offense was blocked and the outside line was inaccurate. The team made 25 of 6 three-pointers. On the other hand, the Warriors made 32 of 15 three-pointers. The ratio of the two teams scoring outside the three-point line was 45:18. The Warriors are more than enough 27 points.
But he made the right bet. Although Asik and Green quickly received the fifth offender, the referee returned to normal and did not send them off directly.
While everyone was chatting and laughing, Leonard sat silently in his seat, arranging his jersey and sneakers, without saying anything.
In the first half, the Grizzlies made 7 of 1 three-pointers. Zhang Yu made adjustments during the intermission. After the start of the third quarter, the Warriors shrunk a few rounds. become bold.
Originally, in this round of the series, Tony Allen's biting caused a lot of trouble for Curry, and the Warriors' interior defense was not good enough, allowing Randolph to shoot 50% of his shots. Only then eliminated the Grizzlies with a big score of 4:2.
Curry is the only stable scorer for the Warriors. The Grizzlies deliberately blocked his three-pointers, so he broke through more inside to score and supported the Warriors' offense.
He didn't know if what Dennis did was right or wrong, but he believed that his uncle would not harm him.
But this time, Leonard had a different idea:
……
Leonard silently watched his teammates gossip, and when he heard something interesting, a smile appeared on the corner of his mouth, but his heart was full of thoughts.
There was no suspense in the first game between the Warriors and the Grizzlies. After the opening, the Warriors quickly established a lead of about 10 points, which was maintained until the end of the game, and finally defeated the Grizzlies 112:97, a big score of 1:0 take the lead
Conley made his comeback in the first round, but he played 5 minutes in G35 with the Trail Blazers. After the game, he felt pain in his face again and missed today's game.
When the whole team misfired, Splash still stood up.
He lived up to the expectations of his teammates and fans. He made 12 of 8 shots, 6 of 3 three-pointers, 4 of 3 free throws, scored 22 points and 3 assists, and was the best player in the Grizzlies.
Leonard finally understood what Dennis meant, hesitated for a moment, and said:
After the Warriors won G3, the morale that the Grizzlies had finally built up plummeted, and they no longer had the will to resist.
Antetokounmpo's defense against Randolph is also not good. He does not suffer from height, but his foot is not stable enough. Randolph has advantages in strength and confrontation, and can easily create shooting space. It is better to let Green went to defend.
Although Asik still got the sixth foul in the last 2 minutes of the fourth quarter, the game was already at the last moment, Gasol's physical fitness declined, and the new force Olynik came on the field, able to withstand his impact and wait until the teammate's attack came. , The Warriors' defense was not affected.
He is the kind of insider that Green is most afraid of encountering. He has height and shooting. Green does not suffer much in confrontation, but it is difficult to interfere with his shots.
But Leonard couldn't make a shot from the middle distance. He wanted to break through to the basket to score, but Gasol blocked two of them, and then died down.
Conley played a good game in G2, and only scored 3 points in G12. He was also in poor form today. He made 15 of 4 shots and only scored 10 points.
Conley's performance was very impressive, even supernormal, but it still couldn't help the Grizzlies beat the Warriors.
At the end of the third quarter, the Warriors had the ball in their hands. With 2.5 seconds left, Leonard sent a baseline ball. Curry took two steps after receiving the ball. Seeing that time was running out, he pushed hard inside the Warriors' three-point line , The basketball flew over half of the court, and under the gaze of everyone, it fell into the net after the red light came on.
At this moment, the audience fell silent. The Warriors surrounded Curry and celebrated wildly. Curry himself was very excited and danced.
This goal widened the point difference to 18 points and completely destroyed the Grizzlies' fighting spirit.
In the fourth quarter, the Grizzlies did not make any resistance, and the point difference was maintained until the end of the game. The Warriors beat the Grizzlies by 108 points 84:20, completed the sweep with a big score of 4:0, and successfully advanced to the Western Conference Finals!
Make up for today.
(End of this chapter)
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