On the first night of the 2003 playoff journey, Roger made big news.
A bloody 51-point single-game performance signified that Roger's relentless dominance over Shaquille O'Neal continued.
This dominance was particularly significant because both Shaq and Roger had switched teams, proving that Roger's dominance over Shaq didn't depend on where Shaq was, or where Roger was. It was a complete and flawless domination.
If your own strength isn't enough, changing teams won't solve the problem.
Shaquille O'Neal did everything within his power; he completely crushed Amar'e Stoudemire and led by example by not trash talking Roger throughout the entire game.
The latter was obviously more difficult than the former. Just look at how Raja Bell slammed the ball into his own face, and you'll know how much the Mavericks' players were holding back.
However, all the efforts of the Mavericks ultimately ended up in vain.
