Capítulo 33: Rising Prospects: Lian Dao, Rubio, and NBA Strategy Shifts
"Kobe, we saw you at the USC game. Why did you leave early?"
As Kobe arrived at the Lakers training arena early in the morning, he was immediately swarmed by a group of reporters.
"Well, because I saw the outcome was pretty clear."
"Did you come to see DeMar then?"
"Initially, I wanted to check out this kid who's got a thing for fadeaway jumpers. He's not bad; he's got some serious basketball talent."
"But what really impressed me was their number one player."
"Oh, not many players impress you, especially in college ball. Are you impressed with his performance?"
The reporters finally cornered Kobe. They had hoped to interview him after the USC game at the Galen Center, but he left midway through.
They seized this opportunity like cats spotting fish—eyes wide and eager.
"Yeah, he's been incredible. His basketball IQ is off the charts, and what stands out to me the most is his deadly three-point shooting and his playmaking."
"That three-point shot of his is lethal, and his passing opens up so many offensive options. Any NCAA team looking to make a championship run needs to watch out for him. He's that good. He could turn the tide for USC."
The media reporters hadn't expected Kobe to be so optimistic about Lian Dao. They also recognized USC, a program that had never won an NCAA basketball championship.
"Do you think he'll go in the first round of this year's draft?"
"Absolutely!" Kobe replied confidently.
He added, "With his current skills, he's definitely a first-round pick, likely top 20."
"If he continues to perform like this, I wouldn't be surprised if he goes top five or even first overall. That's the kind of potential he has."
Kobe was genuinely optimistic about Lian Dao's future prospects. He saw shades of Kidd and Nash in Lian Dao's passing ability.
Of course, Lian Dao hadn't reached their level yet, but Kobe had a gut feeling that Lian Dao had the potential to become an elite playmaker.
And if Kobe could see it, he was sure NBA scouts weren't blind to it either.
That's why Kobe was so bullish on Lian Dao's draft stock.
Meanwhile, Lakers scouts had compiled their reports and handed them to team manager Mitch Kupchak.
Mitch reviewed several player profiles, including those of Lian Dao and DeMar. He quickly dismissed DeMar—Lakers had Kobe, and they weren't lacking shooting guards.
Instead, their small forward position needed shoring up.
The team was considering trading Vladimir Radmanovich, whose performance had declined sharply since joining the Lakers. Trade offers were scarce, with the Bobcats offering Adam Morrison, a deal Mitch wasn't keen on.
Mitch sighed, rubbing his tired eyes as he finished reading Lian Dao's file.
He knew Lian Dao's talent was exceptional and suited the Lakers' needs, but this season, their focus was on a championship run.
With their current standing, the Lakers' draft pick would likely be at the tail end.
Knock knock knock.
"Come in."
It was Kobe, barging into the general manager's office after arriving at the training facility.
"Hey, Mitch, I've found a prodigy. He—" Kobe began, only to spot Lian Dao's file on Mitch's desk.
"You've been checking out this guy's profile. What do you think? I think he'd be a great fit for the Lakers!"
Mitch nodded, gesturing for his secretary to bring Kobe a coffee.
"He's impressive, no doubt. But he's still in college, and our focus right now is the championship."
"We'll revisit this after the season."
Kobe nodded in agreement.
"Yeah, let's focus on lifting that trophy this season. Then we can talk!"
...
Grizzlies general manager Chris Wallace sat at his desk, carefully reviewing the reports laid out before him. The information from the scouts painted a clear picture.
"Sure enough, he's made more strides. This kid seems to have immense potential," Chris murmured to himself, his fingers tapping lightly on the desk as he pondered the implications.
He knew the importance of finding talent early, especially in a competitive draft year. His mind raced with possibilities for the Grizzlies' future lineup.
...
Gregg Popovich, known for his foresight and strategic thinking, found himself increasingly intrigued by Lian Dao's potential. With Tim Duncan approaching 34 years old, the need to secure a successor for the Spurs' core was becoming pressing.
"Smart, talented—truly born to be the core of the team," Popovich remarked, his thoughts already shifting towards the offseason. "We'll need to take action once this season wraps up."
Meanwhile, other NBA teams like the Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, and notably the Minnesota Timberwolves, were also closely eyeing Lian Dao.
With a current record of 11 wins and 26 losses this season, the Timberwolves face slim playoff prospects. However, the emergence of rookie Kevin Love has sparked hope for a resurgence, necessitating the search for a primary playmaker.
The Timberwolves' management holds high hopes for Spanish sensation Ricky Rubio, just 18 years old and already hailed as a prodigious talent in European basketball circles.
"Rubio's talent is undeniable," noted European media outlets, lavishing praise on his early achievements. His standout performance in leading Spain to victory at the 2006 European Under-16 Basketball Championship underscores his potential as a future NBA star.
In a memorable 110-106 double-overtime victory against Russia, Rubio delivered a masterclass with 51 points, 24 rebounds, 12 assists, and 7 steals. This performance not only showcased his scoring ability but also highlighted his exceptional playmaking and defensive prowess, solidifying his reputation as a future superstar.
After capturing the Men's Basketball World Championships, the Spanish team included the 17-year-old Rubio in their 12-man roster for the BJ Olympics. NBA scouts touted him with comparisons to Irvin Johnson, emphasizing his potential as a transformative player.
Despite Rubio's promise, the Timberwolves' recent trades, including the return of their 2009 draft pick in the Garnett deal and acquisition of additional first-round picks, position them well for upcoming drafts.
Initially focused on securing a pure point guard, the Timberwolves' interest shifted upon reviewing footage of Lian Dao's game. His sharp passing and impressive three-point shooting, coupled with his tall and athletic build, caught the attention of team manager Kevin McHale.
Recognizing Lian Dao as a potential cornerstone alongside Rubio, McHale sees him as a pivotal addition to the team's future plans.
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