no shortcuts in basketball

Chapter 255 The king wants to move westward

James's face turned red, and he didn't know whether it was anger, anger after being exposed for plotting against others, or simply being blushed.

Players from both sides were eventually persuaded to leave and return to the bench, while the referees watched replays to confirm the final penalty.

"Jimmy." Xu Yong reached the bench and pulled Butler directly to him.

"Win this game." He hammered Butler's chest and looked directly at him.

Butler saw the cruel look in Xu Yong's eyes and nodded vigorously.

The referee's final penalty came out. James was sentenced to first-level malice, while Xu Yong was sentenced to second-level malice and was expelled.

This was the first time Xu Yong was ejected in his career, but he was cheered and applauded by Chicago fans when he left the field.

Because in the big screen replay just now, it was James who made the first move, and Xu Yong was just defending himself.

After returning to the locker room, Xu Yong took a shower, then sat in front of the TV in the locker room and continued to watch the live game.

Although he was expelled, he is now in a good mood.

It is difficult for owners and players to become friends because they have different interest groups, and the relationship is generally very delicate (Cuban and Nowitzki are the only scorpions in the NBA), so this kind of provocative relationship is difficult to deal with, and it is also difficult to deal with. Hard to guard against.

But now that James has received these two punches, he will not dare to do anything in this area again. This solves the problem from the root.

Of course, it would be better if Butler can lead the team to win.

After all, I sprayed you, beat you, and my team beat you. Even with James's mental endurance, I'm afraid he will be autistic.

The game was fierce, but the Bulls, led by Butler, always kept the score tight.

This is the second time Butler has led the team alone. The last time was the game last season when Xu Yong missed due to injury. But the difference from that game is that this time, both Butler and the Bulls have better physical fitness and fighting spirit. .

When the game came to the third quarter, the Bulls still inevitably fell behind. Xu Yong was on the court, and there was still a gap in strength between the two teams.

However, just when Bulls fans thought there was no chance, in the transition period between substitutes in the third and fourth quarters, Stephenson and Jokic led the team to chase the score back tenaciously.

The Cavaliers coaching staff was obviously not fully prepared for the two of them tonight, especially Stephenson, who was really like a monkey causing trouble in heaven.

There was another fierce battle between the two sides in the final quarter. Butler showed his big heart 8 seconds before the end. He stepped away from James' defense and hit the winning three-pointer.

In the last 8 seconds, James broke through and passed out to J.R. Smith on the outside. Smith's three-pointer was interfered by Stephenson and then hit the frame.

The Bulls eventually defeated the Cavaliers 98-96 and won the game.

Butler scored a game-high 29 points, plus 6 rebounds and 5 assists. He was a well-deserved MVP player in this game.

In addition, Stephenson contributed 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists, making a stunning debut in his Bulls career. Jokic had 10 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists. The two of them were the bench wonders of the Bulls today.

After the game, Xu Yong was still in the locker room. He sat at the door. When his teammates came in, he reached out and gave them high-fives one by one.

When Butler finally came in, he stood up and gave him a hug.

"I know you can do it." Then he gave Butler a big affirmation.

Butler hugged Xu Yong tightly and seemed extremely excited. In the past, he had always been the second-in-command, but tonight he proved that he can also be the first-in-command, and he also defeated a favorite team like the Cavaliers. It was a huge boost to his confidence.

Xu Yong and Butler attended the post-game press conference together.

The reporters were not surprised by Xu Yong's appearance. After all, Artest and Green were present after the last conflict.

The press conference started by talking about the competition.

"I'm still saying the same thing. I'm not surprised by Jimmy's performance because I know he has always had that level. He just lacks an opportunity." Xu Yong's evaluation of Butler was the same as after G3 of last year's finals. This is also why he The reason why he said those words to Butler after he was expelled is that Butler is the type who paddles when he is weak and becomes strong when he is strong.

Then soon, a reporter from TNT mentioned the conflict during the game, which also caused other reporters to look at Xu Yong. They only knew that a conflict occurred during the game, but did not know the specific reason for the conflict.

"You know, the game was intense, and we had a heated exchange of trash talk, and I attacked him and he attacked me, and it got physical, and I was a little impulsive because I heard LeBron wanted to come. Chicago…”

When he said this, the reporters in the audience suddenly burst into violent commotion.

Because Xu Yong said an extremely shocking news in a very casual way: James is joining the Bulls.

This is simply one of the most exciting news of the season.

"Is that true?" The reporter couldn't help but ask, "LeBron wants to join the Bulls."

"I did hear accurate information, although I can't say where it came from."

Xu Yong's answer made the reporters even more upset, because it basically confirmed that this was the case.

This is really fucked up, because the Cavaliers are basically providing James with whatever teammates he wants. Even the head coach always changes them at his request. But in the end, James wants to go to the Bulls?

This vividly explains what a wave is called [licking the dog until there is nothing left].

And the key is, this is still in the season. If Xu Yong's breaking news is released, the Cavaliers may be in chaos.

Because of the conflict, Forman was also at the press conference tonight.

When he heard Xu Yong say this, he was shocked at first.

This kind of thing is generally not something that can be brought to the table, because it can easily be linked to the Bulls management.

But after the shock, he deeply felt Xu Yong's wrist ability.

Now not only James himself will be deeply involved in public opinion, but even the Cavaliers will be in turmoil.

This can be called Zhan Gongjin's clever plan to calm the world, losing his wife and losing his troops.

And Xu Yong's next words made him feel the horror of Xu Yong.

"We're in winning mode, but LeBron has always had internal problems with the teams he's been in, you know, whether it's Miami or Indiana, so I have reason to believe he said he wanted to come to the Bulls in the middle of the season. To disrupt us.

But I must apologize to the fans who came to the arena tonight and watched the live broadcast on TV. Our league has always opposed violence in the stadium because it will have a bad influence on children and the community. I say sorry to everyone. No matter what punishment the league imposes, I will accept it. "

The reporters quickly ended the commotion and replaced it with applause.

As the No. 1 player in the league, what Xu Yong said was reasonable and well-founded, and his attitude of admitting his mistake in the end immediately opened up the situation.

Forman couldn't help but want to applaud, because after saying this, any possibility of James joining the Bulls was eliminated.

……

Late night in New York, league offices.

Silver is holding an emergency meeting with Tatum and the league committee regarding this impact.

No one expected such a sudden situation in the game between the Cavaliers and Bulls, and the two people involved are both league superstars.

Especially Xu Yong, as the No. 1 player in the league, participated in such a vicious fight, which had a great impact on the league.

"My opinion is to fine Xu Yong $[-] and suspend him for ten games." Xiao Hua expressed his position before the meeting began. Although Xu Yong is the face of the league, everyone is equal before the rules.

Of course, this is on the surface, but also on a deeper level. He could feel it before he took office. The overseas market has always been the icing on the cake in his eyes, but now he has an overseas player serving as the face of the league. This is Something he always wanted to change.

Not to mention Xu Yong's indifference to him at the previous championship award ceremony. He would not show it openly, but when given the opportunity behind his back, he would definitely not be soft-hearted.

"I object." As soon as Xiao Hua finished speaking, Tatum raised his objection.

Xiao Hua frowned. Since he took office, the two people have been unable to agree on many aspects. However, because Tatum was the vice president of the league as early as Stern's time and has high prestige in the league committee, he cannot replace him. other side.

"Xu is now a card in the league. Suspending him will have a huge negative impact on the league. Moreover, in this incident, it was LeBron who made the first move. Xu was overly defensive at best, and nothing happened between the two sides after that. Further vicious incidents will occur, so my suggestion is to control public opinion and downplay the matter."

After Tatum finished speaking, many people nodded subconsciously.

"Precisely because he is the face of the league, he should know the influence he brings and know how to exercise restraint." Xiao Hua retorted.

His words also caused several people to nod.

At this moment, someone knocked on the door and came in. It was the president's assistant.

He went to Xiao Hua's ear and told some things.

After the assistant went out, Xiao Hua then said exactly what Xu Yong said at the press conference.

"Since Xu Du said he is willing to accept any punishment, I think there is no need to discuss this matter. Just do what I say." Xiao Hua made a decision.

"Mr. Xiao Hua, the league has always had a tough image. Although I don't agree with Xu's approach, I don't think there is anything wrong with his counterattack. I don't think anyone wants the league to become a soft-ass league, so I think this matter is the most important. It is safe to decide by voting." Tatum's attitude is also very firm.

To put it bluntly, Xiao Hua attaches great importance to the local market, while Tatum is the successor of Stern's overseas plan, and Xu Yong is the core figure of that plan. He will definitely fight for Xu Yong.

"Then vote anonymously." Xiao Hua said. After all, he is the president and must be fair. Precisely because he is the president of the league, when did Stern vote not to say what he said?
Moreover, Xu Yong obviously overreacted this time, and there is no reason not to be suspended.

Two people, two plans, voting anonymously.

After more than ten minutes, a simple anonymous voting result was released.

The results showed that more than 80% of people agreed with Tatum's handling of the matter.

This directly shocked Xiao Hua and made him unbelievable.

However, he has approved the voting results and can only act according to the results.

Tatum breathed a sigh of relief at this time.

Rules are dead, people are alive. Jordan also had conflicts with many people back then, but he was never suspended for it.

Especially when Xiao Hua said he would be suspended for ten games, this would be a huge blow to the NBA's overseas market.

From a business perspective, his approach can minimize the damage to the market and the league.

……

This night, social media was more lively than ever, as if it was a holiday.

However, what fans discussed most was not the court conflict, but James's desire to join the Bulls.

"This is slander. How could the King want to join his enemies?" "This is fake. Free agents are decided to stay or leave in the summer. Xu wants to use this method to cause civil strife in the Cavaliers."

"It would be so exciting if it were true. It feels like the plot of an island country movie. A wife who is deeply loved by her husband and a boss who suppresses her husband..." A comment from "KBfnas".

"I think this is true. Think about it, besides joining the Bulls, does LeBron have any other opportunities to win the championship? And based on what Xu said at the post-game press conference, I tend to think that this may just be a private meeting. It was a secret contact, but I don’t know why Xu found out about it.”

"Don't worry, the Cavaliers will definitely defeat the Bulls this year!"

"Yes, the Cavaliers played well after Xu was ejected, although they lost the game in the end." Comment from "KBfnas".

"That's because LeBron was fighting with injuries. He was injured in the first quarter. After the conflict, his face was swollen, which further affected his performance. But don't worry, none of this will happen in the playoffs, so the Cavaliers must Win!"

"As a Cavaliers fan, although I love LeBron very much, the 1+1 contract is really insecure. It feels like renting a wife."

"I'm looking forward to this summer. If the Cavaliers fail, I believe LeBron's fourth season will be staged." Comment from "KBfnas".

……

The fans' debate was not over yet. Early the next morning, the league issued penalties for last night's conflict early.

Xu Yong was fined US$10 by the league.

Then?There is no more.

This wave of punishments caused a lot of discussion, because Xu Yong did not receive any suspension punishment, which means that the league did not regard last night's incident as a vicious conflict.

This naturally triggered a collective protest among the James fans. After James was punched twice, Xu Yong was fined 10 yuan?

Not to mention that for Xu Yong, 10 knives is about the same as 1 yuan for ordinary people. It is really only [-] cents a piece (boxing).

However, such protests did not have any effect, because the mainstream sports media unanimously downplayed the matter.

James, who has enjoyed the help of media public opinion in the past years and has always said that James relies on strength rather than Nike, this time deeply feels what it feels like to lose capital.

Xu Yong learned about the league's penalty results in the locker room.

To be honest, he was a little surprised. He was prepared to be suspended for a few games.

It can only be said that the Bulls have always had the role of a thug in these years, so that he has not had a chance to try "what is the No. 1 status in the league".

"Next time something like this happens, just let me do it. You don't need to do anything." Artest approached him and offered himself. Xu Yong had helped him pay the league's fine before, but he hadn't even had a chance to repay him.

Xu Yong smiled and nodded.

Because the league only fined 10 yuan, how many more times will the opponent be hit next time?
If you have that idea, you might as well just go to the UFC and play some basketball.

However, with this alliance's penalty, no one would dare to cause trouble for him in the future. After all, no one would want to test his [Fifty Cent Fist].

……

After the league's penalty results came out, the Cavaliers announced that James would miss the game due to a groin injury.

Considering that James had to leave the game due to a groin strain in the first quarter of the previous game, this news is reasonable.

Cleveland, James mansion.

James has locked himself in the room for several days, and no one has entered except for the servants who brought food.

Windhorst rushed over after hearing the news.

But he was stopped by security because James said that he had not seen anyone in the past few days.

Windhorst did not leave, but stayed in the security room for three days. It was not until the morning of the fourth day that he was allowed to enter James' room.

Pushing the door open, a pungent smell of red wine hit my nose.

The curtains on the windows were all drawn. Under the dim bedside lamp, James was lying on the bed decadently. On his bedside were bottles of high-end red wine.

The room was very clean because there were maids cleaning it, but the decadent atmosphere was still scattered in every corner of the room.

Just as Xu Yong thought, no matter how strong his heart was, he was directly autistic this time.

"King, king." Windhorst whispered James' name and came to the bedside.

"I heard someone said that you stayed in the security room for three days?" James was very dirty because he had not hung up his beard for a few days, and his mouth smelled of alcohol, but his mind was still very clear.

"That guy Richie didn't even know where he went, why are you still here?" James continued before Windhorst could speak.

Rich Paul might have felt ashamed to see him, and he didn’t know where he had gone.

"King, I am always by your side, no matter what happens." Windhorst patted his chest.

James looked at this slightly fat face through the dim light and felt warm in his heart.

It doesn't matter how smart you are, it doesn't matter if you are capable, in the end loyalty is the most important thing.

Because of Windhorst's loyalty, James also expressed his true thoughts.

"Brian, do you think I have any chance of making a comeback?"

"Now I don't have the Nike halo, my personal strength is not as good as Xu's, the team's strength is not as good as the Bulls, and even my commercial value has been completely stretched." Knowing that Windhorst is not that kind of smart person, he simply said it straightforwardly .

Windhorst scratched his head. Although he was loyal, his brain was indeed incomparable to that of Rich Paul.

"King, I believe you can do it. It took Nowitzki 16 years to succeed, and you are only in your 12th year."

"Cough! Cough! Cough!"

James coughed violently.

Thank you to his loyal subordinate for reminding him that he is about to end his 12-year career with still nothing.

Even doing the math, Nowitzki actually took only four more seasons to win the championship.

He was actually so close to that old guy.

"I mean, King, you are the chosen one and you are destined to succeed." After seeing James' reaction, Windhorst hurriedly handed over the water glass on the table and explained.

James sighed and motioned to Windhorst to bring the red wine.

After gulping down a few gulps, he burped and smiled to himself.

He must be drunk, even Rich Paul couldn't break the situation, and he actually thought Windhorst could think of a way.

"King, there is actually another way." Windhorst suppressed his blush and said.

James gestured to him and said, since it's like this anyway, let's just treat it as more fun. It can't be more exciting than what he just said, right?

"Migrate westward." Under the dim light, the fat Windhorst said.

James froze for a moment.

"King, you have been unsatisfactory in the east these years and have completely defeated Xu Ci. How can you not afford to hide if you can't defeat him? When you go to the west, you have entered a new world. The sea is not as wide as fish can leap, and the sky is as high as birds can fly." Wen Dhorst's face turned redder and redr as he spoke.

James didn't speak, but he sat up and turned on the bedside lamp.

Although Windhorst's words are still a bit unpleasant, the option of going to the West has always been there, but once as a walker who went there passively, and once as a planned return home. Now, perhaps this is the only option he can take. On the way.

"King, I stayed in the security room for three days, and then I felt that there are three places that are very suitable for you." Windhorst didn't have enough brains, so he just relied on overthinking.

James motioned for him to continue.

"The first place, and the place I think is most suitable for you, is Los Angeles. Think about it, Kobe Bryant is about to retire. Los Angeles needs a new king. There is no one more suitable than you. Your business empire will be rebuilt there. .”

"And the school district there is the best in the country," Windhorst added.

James lowered his head in thought, but still did not speak.

Of course there are many benefits to going to Los Angeles, and he doesn't even mind having Kobe before. After all, Xu Yongdu has achieved great success again with the Bulls, but the problem is that the Lakers are too weak now. Although Windhorst's words are unpleasant, they are also It reminded him that if he doesn't win the championship for a few more years, his real historical status may not be as good as Nowitzki's.

"The second place is Oklahoma." Seeing that James was unmoved, Windhorst then spoke again.

James looked up at Windhorst. This was a place he had never wanted to be.

"Durant has also been failing in these years. This year, because James Harden is in such poor condition, there is a high probability that the Thunder will not be able to break out of the Western Conference. If you go to Oklahoma, it is a league of losers. If you can finally If we succeed, it will be a great story for the league.”

James's eyes lit up at this time.

Don't tell me, this is really appropriate, because Howard's contract expires this summer, and Capela of the Thunder is performing very well.

If he goes, the combination with Durant will definitely be the best partnership in history, and there is a high probability that he can replicate the success of Olajuwon and Drexler.

Not to mention that the Thunder still have Harden, Ibaka, and the skyrocketing salary cap in the summer, and they can add some excellent rotations.

The only problem is that the football market in Oklahoma City is too small. If he goes, the commercial value cannot be realized.

However, Smart, like him, has an excellent solution in his head at this time, that is... to team up with Durant in Los Angeles!
Yes, with the skyrocketing salary cap in the summer and Kobe Bryant's retirement, the Lakers can form a combination of him and Durant as long as they clear up their salary space. As for other players, the Lakers have Okafor as a bargaining chip. Sol also has trade value, so that's not a problem.

After all, if they join forces to form a super team to fight the Bulls, many people will join.

Just like everyone wanted to beat Jordan in the 90s, who wouldn't want to beat Xu Yong?

Of course, this is just a preliminary idea, and it also involves Durant's wishes, although he feels that Durant has no reason to reject him.

However, with the Bulls' experience, he can only wait until the summer to start contacting him this time, but this is indeed a feasible path.

"Where's the third place?" James asked proactively this time.

Seeing James' renewed fighting spirit, Windhorst was extremely excited. He had been standing, but now he sat on James' bed, and then said with a smile:

"Golden State."

(End of this chapter)