บท 105: Building Hype
The contract signing went smoothly, with no major negotiations needed. The terms of rookie contracts are standard across the NBA, governed by league rules, leaving little room for modification. After a quick review, Lian Dao's younger sister confirmed everything was in order, and Lian Dao signed the contract without hesitation.
The key details were clear: NBA first-round picks have a 2+1+1 contract model. This means the first two years are fully guaranteed, while the third and fourth years are team options.
As the No. 1 pick, Lian Dao's rookie contract is the most lucrative among his class. His four-year deal totals $24.5 million, with the first year's salary set at $4.85 million before taxes. Although it might seem substantial, after taxes, it amounts to approximately $3 million. While this is a significant amount compared to many second-round picks, who often earn less than a white-collar worker after taxes, it's just the beginning for Lian Dao.
The real financial opportunities will come once he establishes himself as a rookie. Not only will his salary increase, but endorsement deals, particularly sneaker contracts, are where he can expect to see substantial earnings. These endorsements can often dwarf the base salary, turning Lian Dao's rookie success into a major financial boon.
Downey initially considered offering an advance on Lian Dao's salary but decided against it once he learned about Lian Dao's luxurious Upper East Side residence. "It seems this kid really comes from money," Downey mused, forming a new impression of Lian Dao.
Since Lian Dao didn't need the advance, he didn't bring it up either. Financially secure from his NBA playoff investments and wise stock purchases, Lian Dao was comfortable. He had strategically invested in high-growth tech and internet companies like Facebook, Twitter, and Apple, positioning himself well for the future.
Post-contract, Lian Dao took a moment to celebrate by sharing photos with his training camp group, "09 Superstars," which includes other notable players from their camp. He added Stephen Curry to the group chat at the United Center, where they often chat and brag about their successes.
Lian Dao's photo sparked a flurry of responses in the group:
James Harden (The Bearded One): "Wow, the No. 1 pick really has some cash. Next time I'm in New York, you've got to take me out for a night on the town!"
Stephen Curry (Not a Primary School Student): "[Envy], [Envy]"
DeMar DeRozan (Timberwolves Coach): "Flexing with the big leagues, huh? You better treat us to hot pot!"
Klay Thompson (Washington State University's No. 1 Fan): "Injuries in college are tough—wish I had the chance to be where you are!"
...
Lian Dao's Chinese-English quirks have become quite the topic of amusement among his training camp buddies. Curry, in particular, has struggled with his Chinese pronunciation, often sounding like he's speaking in a dazo accent, much to everyone's delight. Lian Dao's attempts to teach him Chinese phrases have become a running joke.
Hot pot, on the other hand, has become a hit. Demar DeRozan was the first to experience it. Initially overwhelmed by the spiciness and chugging half a bottle of ice water, he quickly fell in love with the dish. He couldn't get enough and became an enthusiastic advocate for it, introducing the rest of the training camp to the joys of Shabu Shabu.
Despite the high-fat nature of hot pot, the players justify indulging occasionally because their rigorous training routines burn off the extra calories. Their newfound love for the dish has become a fun part of their camaraderie.
Interrupting Lian Dao's phone time, Downey asked if he had decided on a jersey number yet.
"Does anyone wear the number 1 jersey?" Lian Dao inquired, reflecting on his college experience where his No. 1 jersey topped NCAA sales charts for the 2008-2009 season.
The No. 1 jersey, often considered cursed by fans, was something Lian Dao wanted to redefine with his own success. He aimed to make it iconic, associating it with his achievements.
Downey mentioned that Chris Duhon currently wore No. 1 and that he would need to check with Duhon about the possibility of parting with the number.
Downey assured Lian Dao that there was no rush to decide, giving them time to see how Duhon felt about the request.
After signing the contract, the Knicks wasted no time in posting pictures and text messages about Lian Dao's signing on their official website and social media platforms. The announcement included impressive highlights from Lian Dao's performances in March Madness.
One of the standout images captured Lian Dao's powerful dunk over Hasheem Thabeet, with Lian Dao suspended in the air, clutching the rim, while Thabeet lay on the floor. The photo vividly illustrated Lian Dao's dominance and toughness, resonating strongly with fans.
The reaction from fans was overwhelmingly positive, with Knicks supporters flooding the comments section with praise and excitement:
"The tyrant comes, the strongest MOP!"
"The rib harvester, the strongest dunk, won the finals 3+1! He is the future of the Knicks!"
Fans eagerly anticipated Lian Dao's impact on the team, seeing him as a key player in the Knicks' quest for success.
...
Among the comments, there were notable endorsements from die-hard Knicks fan Reid Klein and filmmaker Spike Lee, who gave a thumbs up.
"I wish the Knicks can rebuild their glory!"
Their comments reflected the high expectations for the future of the Knicks and Lian Dao's role in it.
With the excitement building, Lian Dao prepared to return home. The Chinese men's basketball team had reached out to the Knicks' management after learning about Lian Dao's signing, and the Knicks agreed to let him participate in the Asian Championships.
The Asian Championships is a significant international event, offering a level of competition and tactical rigor that surpasses that of the summer league. The summer league's primary purpose is to evaluate new talent, serving as a crucial opportunity for late second-round picks and undrafted players to showcase their skills. In contrast, first-round picks like Lian Dao often have little to gain from participating.
Given this context, the Knicks had no objections to Lian Dao's participation in the Asian Championships. As the centerpiece of their team-building strategy, they were eager to observe his performance on an international stage, which would inform their plans for the upcoming season.
To support Lian Dao, the Knicks assembled a temporary team to accompany him to China. This team included a team doctor, a nutritionist, and, surprisingly, head coach Mike D'Antoni. Lian Dao was taken aback by D'Antoni's presence.
D'Antoni had been impressed by Lian Dao's trial performance and wanted to see how he handled himself in the Asian Championships. This experience would help D'Antoni devise tactical arrangements for Lian Dao in the new season. The opportunity to see Lian Dao in action against international competition was invaluable for the Knicks' plans moving forward.
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