On December 19th, after the Thunder easily defeated the Rockets, Head Coach Brooks announced in the locker room that the team would have a day off tomorrow.
The overjoyed Thunder players then flew back to Oklahoma City that night.
The next morning, Durant happily read the comments on Twitter, his mood growing even more pleasant.
In the game against the Rockets, he had easily racked up 31 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists.
Oklahoma City fans had already begun to frequently discuss whether Durant could win the scoring title this season.
His agent, Rick Kleiman, saw Durant engrossed in Twitter early in the morning and couldn't help but remind him:
"Kevin, next year is your contract year. You need to win some awards and perform better on the court."
"Although we all know the Thunder will definitely offer a max contract, good stats can help us negotiate more favorable terms. Spend less time on Twitter, maintain your current momentum, and aim for a scoring title."
Durant was Kleiman's cash cow. Signing a max contract would give him about a 4% commission, which was all green US dollars. He didn't want anything to go wrong with this.
"Don't worry, buddy, my teammates all support me. After all, I'm the boss of the team, and the scoring title isn't difficult. I've successfully scored 30+ in the last few games. We'll definitely sign a max contract next year."
Durant naturally put on a big boss demeanor in front of his agent, but what he was thinking was:
"After signing a big contract, my position as the boss will be legitimate. You are all ultimately here to assist me!"
"That's good. Stay healthy. There are some rumors circulating that there might be some changes to the future Collective Bargaining Agreement. You don't need to worry about that; I'll let you know when I have news."
Kleiman was very attentive to Durant, and his service was, of course, impeccable, with everything arranged perfectly.
"I understand. Once we sign a big contract, we'll open our own agency, and a media company too. Then we'll see who can badmouth me!"
Thinking of the wonderful future, Durant couldn't help but chuckle.
Compared to Durant's leisurely Twitter browsing, Kayce's day was absolutely exceptionally busy.
After the single "Shape of You" was released on the 18th, its data began to grow wildly, which also pushed his agent, Chapman, into full workaholic mode.
Early in the morning, Kayce first picked up Taylor Swift, and after returning to his Oklahoma City mansion, the two began to get ready with makeup.
"Say hello to your family for me. You'll definitely have plans again for Christmas, so I've already prepared your gifts in advance!"
Before Chapman arrived, Kayce and Taylor chatted briefly.
"Kayce, you can come to our house to celebrate Christmas, just like when we were kids. My mom always misses how lively it used to be."
With staff present, Taylor couldn't say too much, so she just playfully winked at Kayce, giving him a knowing look.
"We've all grown up. Joanna and they are celebrating Christmas in London this year, and I'm going to enjoy the Christmas holiday, so I'll stay in Oklahoma City. You know, playing in the NBA isn't easy."
Kayce knew Taylor's little thoughts, and he couldn't respond to that.
"I know, you'll definitely be with your girlfriend again. You're quite loyal, after all these years, you still like those blonde girls!"
Taylor couldn't help but feel a little sour. Kayce, this philanderer, always made her think of being ostracized by those scheming girls in school back then. It was all the fault of scumbags.
"Come on, you're a blonde girl too! We agreed not to bring up those embarrassing things from back then!"
Kayce immediately gave Taylor an annoyed look. Didn't she see everyone present looking over? He didn't want any more gossip to spread. Fortunately, Chapman arrived at this moment, diffusing the awkwardness between them.
"Alright, guys, let's get energized. This is a joint promotion, and we're going to be a huge success."
"Perfect, Taylor, try to be more casual later. Kayce, you too. Make eye contact when you sing, you know what I mean? This is a song you wrote when you were 15, find that feeling from back then."
"Are you starting to moonlight as a director now? Haha, don't be so serious, everyone relax. This is just a short video, Chapman, you're too nervous."
Kayce teased his agent. He knew that because Big Machine Records only had two singers, even though Taylor was successful now, she was still in a period of critical acclaim but not commercial success.
Therefore, Chapman was eager to use Kayce to make a huge profit.
The song "I'm Yours" had earned Kayce a lot of enthusiastic girls in school back then, and it also broke Taylor's heart.
This silly girl thought the song was written for her, and she was particularly touched, and then she witnessed Kayce changing girlfriends like a revolving door.
"Don't worry! I listen to this song every day. I'm not like some people who are indifferent to their own music."
Taylor hugged her beloved guitar and again hinted at someone with a complaint.
"I'm also ready. We can start anytime."
Kayce also picked up his guitar. Speaking of which, this guitar was also a gift from Taylor back then. Unfortunately, Kayce, who loved planting trees, wouldn't give up a large forest for a small sapling.
As the light and cheerful guitar music began, Kayce and Taylor quickly got into character. The eye-catching combination of handsome man and beautiful woman made Chapman's heart surge with excitement as he watched from the side, shouting in his mind:
"Money, here we come! No one can stop us from sweeping America. This time, we're going to appeal to both men and women!"
Kayce looked at the love in the blonde girl's eyes beside him and couldn't help but feel his scalp tingle. If another one came along, it would truly make a full mahjong table!
On December 21st, the Thunder departed for Los Angeles. Tomorrow night, they will challenge the Los Angeles Lakers on the road, and the day after tomorrow, they will fly to Phoenix again to challenge the Phoenix Suns.
The Thunder were not involved in the Christmas War, but they did get to experience back-to-back games before Christmas.
This year's highly anticipated Christmas War was naturally the NBA's heavily promoted 23 vs. 24, LeBron James vs. Kobe Bryant. Fans were all looking forward to this game.
During the afternoon practice, everyone was also discussing the Christmas War.
"The NBA's schedule should be more reasonable. They always set the key games early, but many fans actually want to watch our games."
Durant, who was in a great mood lately, was again a bit envious. Players who play in the Christmas War usually have a certain status in the NBA.
"Not playing in the Christmas War is also good. We can spend more time with our families. This year, Nina and I will both stay in Oklahoma City, so I think the schedule is pretty good."
Good man Russell didn't want to play any games on Christmas. For him, spending time with his girlfriend at home was the most important thing.
"Maybe next year it will be our turn for the Christmas War, but I want to remind everyone that Kobe's recent form has been too good. Tomorrow night's game definitely won't be easy."
Kayce gently reminded everyone that after the Lakers defeated the Detroit Pistons on the road yesterday, they had a record of 22 wins and 4 losses, reclaiming the top spot in the Western Conference by winning percentage.
"Shit! I don't want to guard Gasol, I hate the Lakers!"
Jeff Green immediately cursed when he thought about having to guard another star big man tomorrow night.
Seeing everyone chattering about Kobe's recent stats, Kayce was also secretly looking forward to guarding Kobe. In this matchup, most of his achievement badges had already been upgraded to silver.
"I hope tomorrow night's game can bring in more badge experience."
On the other side of the ocean, in China, it was Wednesday, and there was a Lakers game. CCTV usually broadcasted it. Today's game happened to be against the Thunder, so two hot topics came together, and fans were ecstatic.
Many fans had been looking forward to this game for a long time. Previously, the Thunder always missed CCTV's broadcast dates, and Sina Sports was terribly slow. It was truly difficult to watch a Thunder game smoothly.
In the CCTV studio, host Yu Jia and guest Zhang Weiping were also discussing the recent performance of the two teams.
"Zhang, the Lakers have returned to the top spot in the Western Conference. Do you think the Lakers have a chance to win another championship this season?"
Host Yu Jia posed a question that many Kobe fans fans would love to hear.
"I personally think the Lakers definitely have a chance to reach the NBA Finals this season. Gasol and Kobe's chemistry has improved even more!"
"And looking at the last few games, Kobe's form is getting better and better. As long as he stays healthy, I'm optimistic about the Lakers making it out of the Western Conference."
Weiping-Bryant wasn't called that for nothing. As a Kobe fan, Zhang was practically shouting "Lakers for the championship!"
"What are your expectations for the Thunder? A quarter of the regular season has passed, and the Thunder have the same number of wins as the Lakers, ranking second in the Western Conference. Do you think the Thunder have a chance to reach the NBA Finals?"
Host Yu Jia asked another question that Kayce's fans cared about.
"To be honest, the Thunder will definitely face difficulties in the Playoffs. The core three are all rookies, which means the Thunder lack Playoffs experience. Against the established powerhouses in the Western Conference, they will definitely be at a disadvantage in terms of experience."
"Also, most Playoffs teams in the Western Conference basically have a star big man on their team. The Thunder's current roster lacks a big man who can defend and protect the rim. When it comes to the Playoffs, interior players are too important."
"If they face the Lakers, the twin towers simply can't be dealt with. So, I think the Thunder should accumulate some experience this season, and then make some moves in the offseason. If they can get reinforcements, then the Thunder will definitely be incredible next season!"
In those days, in the Playoffs, it was often about the ability of big men. Excellent big men could make huge contributions to the team on both offense and defense. Zhang's remarks were also a consensus among many.
"A while ago, our colleagues interviewed Kayce, and there was a very interesting question. Kayce believes he will win all the rookie awards. Do you think he can sweep all the rookie awards?"
"The young man is indeed interesting. If Kayce can maintain his current form, I don't think there's a big problem."
"Of course, we also don't rule out that the NBA might give some awards to other rookies. Local players do get some preferential treatment."
Zhang was also blunt, showering Kayce with praise. The general meaning, when translated, was that if Kayce didn't win an award, there was foul play.
"Let's talk about these things before the game. The starting lineups have already been released, and both teams are still using their regular rotations."
"The Lakers' starters are Derek Fisher, Kobe Bryant, Ron Artest, Pau Gasol, and Andrew Bynum."
The Thunder's starting lineup is Russell Westbrook, Kayce, Kevin Durant, Jeff Green, and Nenad Kostić.
"Zhang, for the outcome of this game, could you give us a quick prediction?"
After host Yu Jia briefly introduced the starting lineups of both teams, he brought the topic back to the outcome of the game.
"If there are no surprises, the Lakers should win. Gasol's advantage in that area is too great."
"The Thunder's interior defense can't hold up. If you single-cover Kobe, no one can stop him. The Thunder will have to pull out some unexpected moves, otherwise, this game will be tough."
Zhang Weiping spoke frankly. In his opinion, the suspense of this game wasn't too great; there was still a clear gap between the two teams.
"Thank you, Zhang, for your commentary. The game is about to begin. Let's switch to the live broadcast and watch the Lakers host the Thunder."
Staples Center hadn't changed much. Tickets by the court had long been snapped up by various celebrities. Although Britney was a wealthy socialite, she wasn't interested in spending money to be a sucker.
Britney had already flown to Oklahoma City with Anne, and she also sent a message, saying that she would help manage the mansion in Oklahoma City so he could play without worry.
Before the game, in the Thunder's locker room, Head Coach Brooks began his motivational speech again:
"Guys, stay calm. The opponent is the defending champion. We need to approach this game with a learning attitude, stick to our game plan, and play steadily."
"Don't think about winning or losing, don't pay attention to what the media says. We are already an excellent team. This is just a regular season game. Go out and enjoy the game, boys!"
Meanwhile, in the Lakers' locker room, Phil Jackson simply gave his players a brief instruction:
"Pay attention to long rebounds. We need to fight for more offensive rebounds. We need to slow the game down and run more interior offense. Kayce is the starting point of the Thunder's offense, Kobe, the defensive end is up to you."
Kobe nodded, indicating he understood. Defending a rookie was a piece of cake for him.
The lights in Staples Center dimmed, and the live DJ began introducing the teams. Kobe remained the most beloved star among Los Angeles fans, receiving the loudest cheers.
Kayce unexpectedly spotted a few Chinese fans wearing Thunder jerseys and immediately waved at them.
Ever since he won Rookie of the Month in November, Kayce's influence had been gradually spreading. He could see Chinese fans supporting him at every away game.
During the final warm-up phase before the game, the Thunder's trio were all comforting Jeff Green.
"Don't worry, I'll help you on defense, Bro. Gasol can't defend you on offense either."
Durant whispered, comforting him. This was his staunch supporter in the locker room, and as the boss, he had to back his little brother.
"As long as we play more efficiently on offense, we can ease up a bit on defense. Come on, Bro!"
Russell also stepped forward and patted Jeff Green's shoulder. Relying on offense was better than relying on defense; just go all out.
"We will all participate in rebounding, Bro. You know, you'll get a lot of open looks on offense, and I'll find you!"
Kayce also spoke up to comfort him. To win, both Jeff Green and Kostić needed to play well, otherwise, the previous situation would occur again, where these two suddenly disappeared during the game, and then the game would be lost.
Jeff Green's long face eased considerably. He had been traumatized by Gasol in the last game and was in low spirits before this one. Hearing his brothers' comfort, he immediately stepped forward to fist bump them, while secretly praying:
"Miss, miss, I hope all the Lakers miss their shots."
The game was about to begin. Players from both teams came to the center of the court and exchanged brief greetings. Kostić and Bynum stood at the center circle, ready for the jump ball.
"Clap."
"The game begins! Bynum tipped the ball to the Lakers. Fisher dribbled past half-court and passed it to Gasol near the free-throw line."
In the CCTV studio, host Yu Jia also began his commentary on the game.
As soon as Kayce saw Gasol receive the ball, he knew the opponent was going for a handoff with Kobe. He immediately stepped forward to body up Kobe, not allowing him to easily get the ball.
The two wrestled for a bit, finally forcing Kobe to receive the ball beyond the three-point line, but Gasol immediately came up for a screen. Kobe drove to his right, accelerated, and just a step past the three-point line, pulled up for a fadeaway.
"Swish!" The long two-pointer went in steadily.
"F*ck! That big man screen is too hard to defend!"
Kayce cursed inwardly. He was only a step slow getting through the screen, and Kobe made the shot as soon as he had an opening. It seemed the opponent was indeed in good form recently.
"Kobe's shot is truly beautiful. The Thunder are having a hard time defending this screen. Kobe can shoot, and Gasol can roll. The last time these two teams met, that's how the Thunder lost."
Zhang couldn't help but praise Kobe again.
In the opening stage, the Thunder's offensive initiator shifted to Russell. Kobe defended Kayce, Artest defended Durant, and Fisher defended Russell. Of course, you pick on the weakest, and what's more, Fisher's defense was already a paper tiger.
After Russell dribbled past half-court, everyone immediately cleared offensive space for him. Fisher lowered his center of gravity, his eyes focused, staring intently at Russell, exuding the aura of a defensive stalwart.
But unfortunately, after a simple in-and-out dribble, Fisher was easily blown by Russell. From the right elbow of the free-throw line, he pulled up for a fadeaway.
"Swish!" The mid-range shot went in easily.
"Fisher's defense, his footwork really can't keep up anymore. Westbrook's crossover, and he's just gone. After a few minutes, I estimate Phil Jackson will have to make a substitution."
Zhang also complained about the old fish's defense; you can't defend people with just your eyes.
The Lakers' offense was very slow. After several passes on the perimeter, Bynum came up for a high screen, while Gasol demanded the ball in the low post.
After receiving a lob pass from Artest, he immediately put the ball down, dribbled one step towards the baseline with his right hand, immediately turned and gathered the ball, and made a delicate hook shot with his left hand.
"Swish!" The two-pointer went in steadily.
For the next three minutes, Kayce did not frequently receive the ball, but instead constantly called out to his teammates on the court, reminding everyone to run the plays and get into position.
The Thunder, relying on Russell's ability to attack one-on-one, moved the ball very quickly. Several players on the perimeter participated in the offense, and Kayce orchestrated the plays on the court, dissecting the Lakers' defense.
Thanks to the excellent performance of Russell and Jeff Green on offense, with 5 minutes and 46 seconds left in the first quarter, both teams were tied at 14. At the same time, Artest also picked up his second foul, and Durant once again showed his explosiveness.
Head Coach Phil Jackson called a timeout. Artest and Fisher's performance was too poor, and substitutions had to be made.
Kayce was very satisfied with his performance. Although he didn't score, he delivered three assists. Most importantly, he tied up Kobe, giving Russell better one-on-one opportunities.
This move was learned from Kidd. After more than 20 games of working together, the Thunder's team chemistry had improved significantly, and their tactical plays were slowly starting to materialize.
"The Thunder's opening offense was very smooth. Several of their drive-and-kick plays and pick-and-roll rolls were quite good. The team's improvement is very obvious."
Host Yu Jia briefly praised the Thunder's tactical coordination.
"They are indeed playing well, but the Lakers will definitely make substitutions. I estimate Vujacic and Odom will have to come in early. Let's see how the Thunder's offense will play out next."
Zhang indeed understood the Lakers' rotation. After the timeout, Head Coach Phil Jackson directly took out the defensive black hole and the two-foul Artest from the court.
After Vujacic and Odom came on, the Lakers' lineup on the court became even taller, specifically to guard against the Thunder's drives.
At this point, the Thunder's offensive initiators became Kayce and Durant. On a Thunder possession, Kayce began to post up below the left elbow of the free-throw line.
This was his shooting hot zone. Kobe was constantly bodying him from behind, but Kayce, relying on his weight and the bonus from [Post-Up Master], managed to receive the pass from Russell.
At this point, Russell cut along the baseline, taking his defender with him, while Durant came to the top of the arc. Everyone cleared one side, leaving Kayce space for a one-on-one.
"Oh, this is a low-post one-on-one play that the San Antonio Spurs often use for Duncan. It's quite interesting. This shows confidence in Kayce's one-on-one ability."
Zhang's spirits immediately lifted when he saw the situation on the court: a rookie taking on Kobe.
Kobe's defense on Kayce was very tight. This was because he was very confident in his lateral quickness and believed that Kayce couldn't blow by his defense with a single dribble.
After receiving the ball, Kayce quickly put the ball down with his left hand in a triple threat, then crossed over to his right hand, protecting the ball, while desperately arching his body inward twice to ensure he wasn't squeezed out of his shooting hot zone.
He pulled the ball back with his right hand, faked a shoulder twitch, which made Kobe pause slightly, then immediately turned and shot a fadeaway.
"Swish!" The fadeaway was beautiful, and the mid-range shot went in steadily.
"Oh! Wow!"
The audience at Staples Center let out gasps of surprise. Such a back-to-the-basket one-on-one was indeed spectacular, and this was against Kobe's defense.
Before Kayce could get back on defense, Kobe suddenly said in a low voice:
"Good shooting motion, but I know your little trick. This is your shooting hot zone. Next time, you won't easily get the ball here."
"The entire half-court is my shooting hot zone. I'll keep making shots!"
Kayce naturally had to show his tough attitude. After all, bragging doesn't cost taxes. At the same time, he secretly complained in his heart:
"A superstar still studies a rookie's shooting hot zone for no reason? How much do you love the game?"
Perhaps provoked by Kayce's one-on-one play, Kobe began to increase his aggressiveness in the remaining few minutes of the first quarter, frequently posting up in the low block.
At the same time, Kayce also secretly groaned. On defense, he had to desperately box out, and on offense, every time he received the ball, it became increasingly difficult. After several consecutive body confrontations, Kobe also resorted to his iron elbow.
Kayce, of course, was not polite either, pulling and tugging, using his hands and elbows, which led to him picking up two fouls in the first quarter.
By the end of the first quarter, both teams were tied at 28. Regarding his defensive encounters, Kayce really wanted to shout at Kobe:
"Big brother, don't elbow me, I'm just a rookie."