Bab 29: Silent Bloodshed!
"This is a player we can't afford to miss. If only he had come out earlier, the Lakers would have been all over him!"
With the NBA regular season nearing its end and the Lakers' record stabilizing, Jerry West's frustration was palpable. The top-three lottery picks were beyond their reach, leaving West deeply distressed.
His anticipation for the draft was high. As early as six months ago, he had started scouting potential rookies. Kobe Bryant had quickly become a primary target. West had planned to do whatever it took to secure Bryant if he declared for the draft.
But now, Lin Tianhui's sudden rise had thrown everything into chaos.
Lin's exceptional performance on the court had ignited hope for the Lakers' future, promising a revival of their dynasty. With Lin's arrival, West saw a significant boost to their long-term plans.
If the Lakers could overcome the Bulls, led by Michael Jordan, and win the championship, their influence would be unprecedented. Therefore, securing Lin Tianhui had become an imperative.
"I don't know what's happening, but isn't it a bit rude to barge in without knocking?"
Adam Simon's irritation was evident as he confronted Pat Riley. Despite their good personal relationship, Simon expected professional respect.
"Man, I'm sorry for barging in. But you have to understand, I can't contain my excitement. I've just seen a rookie who could change the fate of our Heat!"
Pat Riley's enthusiasm was palpable. This season, his coaching had revived the Heat's playoff hopes after a poor previous season, boosting his own confidence.
Unexpectedly, a dark horse had emerged in the NCAA tournament: Lin Tianhui. From the Sweet 16 to the Final Four, Lin's performance had been exceptional. Riley saw Lin as a potential game-changer, especially in the quest to counter Jordan's dominance.
Jordan's return to the NBA had reasserted his status as a formidable opponent, particularly for Eastern Conference teams. Riley, ambitious and determined, sought a player who could compete with Jordan.
Lin Tianhui's impressive performance made Riley believe he might be the key to neutralizing Jordan's impact.
Adam Simon, understanding Riley's intense focus, grew serious. Riley's excitement indicated that Lin was indeed an exceptional talent.
"This guy, Lin, is from China. I want you to ensure we get him, whatever it takes. Secure a top-three pick or negotiate with other teams to get him. Do whatever is necessary!"
Riley placed Lin Tianhui's profile on Simon's desk, urging him to act decisively.
Simon, feeling the weight of Riley's expectations, was overwhelmed. The pressure to deliver was immense.
"Lin's performance is creating a buzz across the league!"
Red Auerbach, known for his keen eye for talent, took a puff from his victory cigar, his attention firmly on Lin Tianhui.
As the head of the Celtics, Auerbach was deeply invested in Lin's potential. The Celtics had been without a championship for too long, and Auerbach saw Lin as a key to returning to glory.
"The Celtics need a new era of success. Perhaps it's time to usher in the next chapter with Lin Tianhui."
Auerbach's eyes sparkled with determination. Lin was about to make a significant impact on the league.
"Lin Tianhui is generating buzz everywhere, even in our office."
In the Suns' general manager's office, discussions about Lin Tianhui were in full swing. It was clear that Lin had captured the league's attention.
Across the NBA, except for the Bulls with Michael Jordan, teams were already strategizing to acquire Lin. If he entered the draft, a silent yet intense competition would ensue.
The league was on the brink of a dramatic shift, with Lin Tianhui poised to become a central figure in the upcoming draft.
Status Power Mingguan
-- Peringkat
Power 
-- Power
stone