Christmas Eve Showdown

At today's post-match press conference, Alvin Gentry mentioned the outstanding veteran Karl Malone.

At the same time, Li Chen was somewhat disappointed because he once again missed out on the [Steal Master] skill.

Clippers post-game press conference.

"Karl Malone, what do you think of Li Chen, your new teammate?"

"He's a fantastic teammate. If he had been my teammate, we might have been able to beat the Bulls," Karl Malone said with a smile.

Upon hearing this, the reporters were astonished; they never expected Karl Malone to have such a high opinion of Li Chen.

The reporter rolled his eyes and asked a very pointed question, "Mr. Karl Malone, can a player like you, from the same era as Basketball God Jordan, really integrate into this young Clippers?"

Hearing this, Alvin Gentry, sitting to the side, cursed inwardly. These reporters were doing something awful; weren't they just stirring up internal conflict?

Karl Malone thought for a moment and said, "To be honest, I was a little unconvinced at first."

Upon hearing this, the reporters perked up.

Alvin Gentry also looked grim; he never expected that bastard Malone would say such a thing.

At that moment, Karl Malone changed the subject, saying, "However, after observing him for a month, I've found him to be a truly excellent leader. During training, he shares his basketball skills and understanding of the game with his teammates."

"On the court, when his teammates are shooting well, he always passes the ball to them. But when they're cold and the team is in trouble, he's always the one who steps up. To be honest, in all my years in the NBA, I've never seen such a reliable leader."

This statement surprised the reporters.

Alvin Gentry also breathed a sigh of relief.

The following day, an article titled "Li Chen Through Karl Malone's Eyes" appeared in the report.

For a time, NBA players all felt an urge to team up with Li Chen.

On November 31, the Clippers faced the Nuggets again and defeated them 96-90.

Andre Miller had a good performance, scoring 20 points in this game. It can be said that the Nuggets' $10 million annual salary is not a bad deal at all, and is even more worthwhile.

The Western Conference Player of the Month for November of the 2003-2004 season has been announced.

Li Chen, with an average of 25.2 points, 5 rebounds, and 11.7 assists per game and a perfect 12-0 record, surpassed Peja Stojakovic of the Sacramento Kings, who averaged 22.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game and had a 12-4 record.

Of course, the Clippers have a slight advantage due to their Clippers in November, but this does not diminish the strength of the Clippers and Li Chen.

On December 1st, the Clippers will play against the Spurs on the road.

Li Chen's random S-rank Skill in this match is [Assist Master].

Li Chen's five skills are: [Unrestrained], [Miracle Shot], [Iron Wall and Bronze Barrier], [Pull-up Jumper], and [Divine Shooter].

As the saying goes, enemies are bound to be furious when they meet, and Li Chen showed his strong desire to score from the very beginning of the first quarter of this game, especially when he was matched up against Bowen.

Actually, Li Chen was still a little regretful, because his kick only crippled one of Bowen's O-shaped legs. Now he was somewhat looking forward to Bowen tripping him again and then crippling him completely.

Seeing Li Chen constantly glancing down below, Bowen trembled slightly.

He mostly condemned Li Chen in the media, saying it was intentional, but the media scoffed at his words, arguing that Li Chen couldn't have made such a precise move under such a loss of balance.

What the media finds most contemptible is that you were the one who stepped on their foot first, so you have no choice but to bring this upon yourself. How dare you come out and condemn others? You are a disgrace to the United States.

Upon seeing Li Chen's look, Bowen gritted his teeth and asked, "Kid, are you doing this on purpose?"

"Of course, I did it on purpose." Although Li Chen thought this in his heart, he wouldn't be foolish enough to say it out loud, so he innocently said, "I'm really sorry about last season. I never expected that kind of thing to happen. But you didn't lose out either, at least you made me lose a championship."

Hearing this, Bowen was so angry he almost choked. What does winning the championship have to do with me? I almost... Now my wife complains about it every time.

At this moment, Li Chen muttered to himself, "I'm wondering what your wife is doing now?"

Bowen was stunned for a moment, and then a disgusting image flashed through his mind.

At the same time, taking advantage of Bowen's momentary daze, Li Chen broke through and passed Bowen in one step.

Suddenly realizing what was happening, Bowen instinctively grabbed Li Chen.

Li Chen rolled several times on the ground before stopping.

The referee blew his whistle and awarded Bowen a flagrant foul.

Li Chen breathed a sigh of relief, thinking that this performance was too exaggerated, but thankfully, the referee still gave Bowen a malicious foul.

At the same time, Popovich immediately called a timeout. Wow, he called a timeout less than a minute into the game.

After calling a timeout, Popovich launched into a tirade of abuse at Bowen.

Bowen cursed Popovich inwardly, thinking, "If you hadn't encouraged me back then, would I be in this situation today? You still have the nerve to yell like that?" But he only dared to think those thoughts to himself.

At the same time, Li Chen got two free throw opportunities, and swish! He made both free throws.

The Clippers lead the Spurs 2-0.

After the timeout, Popovich promptly substituted Bowen out of the game.

Duncan will take a week to recover from his injury. Without Duncan, the Spurs are really not good right now.

Now that Bowen has been substituted, Li Chen is dominating the game. In the first quarter, Li Chen drove to the basket and scored from both inside and outside, along with frequent assists, giving the Clippers a 35-18 lead over the Spurs by 15 points.

In the second quarter, Karl Malone triggered the "stimulant" buff from [Unrestrained], wreaking havoc under the basket and becoming unstoppable.

At halftime, they led the Spurs 70-32, a 38-point advantage.

In the first half, the petty Li Chen scored 32 points, plunging the Spurs into fear of being dominated by the "Big Devil".

Strong, incredibly strong. Even the Spurs players feel that Li Chen is even stronger this year, and the Clippers' overall strength is also very strong.

Especially the rookie named Korver, his Open Three-Pointer is incredibly accurate; his open three-point shooting percentage is definitely over 50%.

During halftime, Li Chen downed a bottle of Functional Drink and continued to challenge the Spurs in the second half.

At the end of the third quarter, the Clippers led 32-19, securing the victory.

The Clippers now lead the Spurs 102-51 in the series.

In the fourth quarter, the Spurs did not substitute their starters, but Li Chen's constant Pull-up Jumper in the first three quarters had exhausted him.

So he was also a bit exhausted in the fourth quarter, but he still gritted his teeth and persevered.

The Spurs ultimately won the fourth quarter 32-20, but we still lost the series 122-73. The Spurs were blown out by the Clippers at home by 48 points.

Seeing the Spurs in such a sorry state, most fans didn't want to watch anymore after the third quarter; it was too painful, and they were also furious at the Spurs' incompetence.

Li Chen was somewhat disappointed with the score, as his original plan was to beat the Spurs by 68 points.

In this game Spurs' Parker played 38 minutes, shooting 4-for-15 for 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists, including 2-for-4 from three-point range and 6-for-7 from the free-throw line.

Ginobili played 40 minutes, shooting 2-for-12, scoring 7 points, grabbing 5 rebounds, and dishing out 5 assists. He made 1 of 3 three-pointers and 2 of 2 free throws.

For the Clippers, Karl Malone had 25 points, 12 rebounds, and 1 assist.

Wang Zhizhi 15 points, grabbed 5 rebounds, and made 1 of 1 three-pointers.

Corey Maggette had 18 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 assist.

Korver scored 18 points, making 6 of 12 three-pointers.

Korver is now throwing with confidence, but without Li Chen, he'll be brought back to reality.

Li Chen played 48 minutes in this game, shooting 15-for-20, scoring 40 points, 16 assists, 6 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2 steals, including 6-for-10 from three-point range and 4-for-4 from the free-throw line.

This was Li Chen's highest-scoring game of the season.

December 2nd afternoon.

Kobe, whom he hadn't contacted in a long time, actually called him.

This surprised Li Chen. In the past month, Kobe had developed a habit of turning off his phone at night, and he hadn't had a one-on-one match with him in a long time.

Li Chen answered the phone and teased, "Oh ho! Isn't this Kobe? What made you think of calling me?"

Kobe ignored Li Chen's teasing and instead happily said, "I'm going to be a dad!" Kobe's words were full of excitement.

"Aren't you already a father?"

"Fuck, what do you know? This is my son!"

"Haha! Everyone was wrong to say you, Kobe, were a doting father to your daughter. You actually prefer your son. "Li Chen thought to himself.

"Hey! You bastard, you're not just calling to show off, are you?"

"Huh? Is it that obvious?" Kobe asked in surprise.

Li Chen: "..."

"Hey Kobe! Let me tell you, I'm definitely going to be this godfather..."

"Hey! Chen, can you hear me? Hey, hey, hey! Chen, are you still there?"

Kobe's voice grew softer and softer, until finally, the call was disconnected.

Li Chen stared blankly at the phone that had been hung up, then burst out laughing. He hadn't expected Kobe to have such a funny side.

Just as Li Chen was about to hang up and continue training, his phone rang again. He looked at it and realized that the caller was Britney.

Li Chen frowned, wondering why this famous singer wanted to call him. After thinking for a moment, Li Chen answered the phone.

Britney's sweet voice came through the phone as soon as it connected.

"Chen, did I disturb you?" Britney asked with a smile.

"Of course not, it's my honor to receive a message from Miss Britney."

"Hehe, Chen, you're so good with words. Was Avril won over by your sweet talk?" Britney teased.

Hehe! Li Chen thought to himself, you guessed wrong, she was actually picked up off the street.

"Miss Britney, it wasn't easy to win Avril. I went to great lengths to get her to agree to date me, so her current situation is very precarious."

Britney paused for a moment, then joked, "You might consider me after you get dumped!"

Li Chen was taken aback, thinking to himself, "Are you hinting at something?"

"Ms. Britney, you're joking. By the way, why did you call...?" Li Chen changed the subject.

"Oh! Today is my birthday, and I sincerely invite you to join me. Please don't refuse! Otherwise, I'll be very sad!"

Li Chen was about to refuse, but then he couldn't say anything more, so he said with a bitter face, "Okay, I would be honored."

Britney giggled happily, but then kindly reminded him, "Chen, my birthday party is also a charity event!"

A moment later, Li Chen felt a little annoyed. He had initially thought Britney was interested in him, but it seemed she just wanted him to donate money!

In the afternoon, Li Chen received Britney's invitation.

Li Chen held the invitation for a moment, then called Bill Duffy and explained his purpose.

Bill Duffy thought about it and accepted Li Chen's invitation.

That evening, he and Bill Duffy arrived at a manor house at the address Britney had given them.

They were led to a hall by the staff, but to Li Chen's dismay, Bill Duffy was too unreliable and simply left him aside.

Li Chen was speechless and sat down by himself.

At this moment, a beautiful woman with black hair, large breasts, and a voluptuous figure walked over and naturally sat down next to Li Chen.

She extended her hand confidently and said, "Hello, Mr. Li Chen, my name is Kardashian."

Li Chen was slightly taken aback, looking at the woman in her early twenties with surprise.

Li Chen never expected that this plump yet slender American girl would become the future famous eldest Kardashian Kim Kardashian.

These three sisters are known as NBA player killers!

At this moment, Kim Kardashian seemed to understand why Li Chen was surprised, so she explained, "Chen, everyone knows your name now, isn't it normal for me to know it?"

Mr. Li Chen was taken aback, then pretended to suddenly realize something.

Then Kim Kardashian started chatting with Li Chen.

Li Chen actually didn't want to associate with this woman; she was the kind of person who would do anything to become famous.

Just as the two were chatting, a commotion broke out outside the hall.

Just then, someone exclaimed, "Oh my God! MJ is here too!"

Immediately afterwards, Michael Jackson walked in, surrounded by bodyguards.

Immediately afterwards, celebrities and socialites went to greet Kerr Jack.

Kim Kardashian did the same; after saying goodbye to Li Chen, she walked towards the crowd.

A short while later, Britney, the hostess, also came out.

It took more than ten minutes for things to quiet down.

It was only then that Li Chen realized Michael Jackson's influence in the United States.

At this moment, Li Chen stood up and walked towards Michael Jackson.

If Michael Jackson hadn't been passing by, he and Odom would have definitely gotten into a fight with those thugs, and their lives would have been in danger, since the thugs had guns.

So, I let it go before since I didn't have the chance, but now that I do, I must thank them in person.

A moment later, Li Chen bowed politely and said, "Hello, Mr. Jack."

Michael Jackson was somewhat surprised, as he didn't think much of Li Chen.

Li Chen smiled and said, "Nine months ago, I ran into my teammates and was then chased by gangsters. They were armed with handguns. Just at that critical moment, Mr. MJ's convoy happened to pass by, scaring away the gangsters. I didn't have a chance to thank you for saving our lives then, but I'm fortunate to meet you today, so I want to thank you in person."

Michael Jackson frowned deeply; he was currently embroiled in lawsuits and couldn't even remember what had happened a few months ago.

Michael Jackson relaxed his brow and said in his magnetic voice, "Eastern Kid, you don't need to thank me. It was just a coincidence. It was God's mercy."

"No, no, no! God is just and impartial, so He would not deceive or help anyone," Li Chen said firmly.

"So, this is the cause and effect between me and Mr. Michael."

Li Chen really lived a life of folly, completely fooling a group of celebrities and socialites.

Even Michael Jackson was completely bewildered.

"Mr. Michael, I know you've been very stressed lately because of the lawsuit, but I still believe you've been wronged."

"All the criticisms leveled against you are slanders; I have always believed in your character," Li Chen added.

"God is just, and one day He will give you justice," Li Chen added.

Upon hearing this, the crowd was in an uproar. They couldn't understand why an Easterner dared to be so certain, especially since even they themselves were not sure.

At the same time, Michael Jackson was somewhat moved, after all, the fact that a complete stranger could believe in him so much gave him great psychological comfort.

Michael Jackson then chatted with Li Chen for a while before learning that he was a basketball player.

Upon hearing this, Michael Jackson said he would definitely watch Li Chen's game when he had time.

On the way back, Bill Duffy looked at Li Chen in shock and said, "Chen, I never expected to encounter something so thrilling."

Li Chen said with a wry smile, "Actually, I didn't want to either!"

"By the way, Chen, Knicks owner Dolan called me."

It turns out that after receiving Dolan's call in New York, Li Chen immediately shifted the blame to Bill Duffy.

"Oh? What did he say?" Li Chen asked.

"He said he could grant you any request, Chen. Actually, I suggested you go to the Knicks."

"Bill, of course I know, but the Knicks are just too strong."

Upon hearing this, Bill Duffy was relieved that his car hadn't rear-ended anyone.

He was speechless. This was the first time he'd ever heard of someone complaining about a strong team. Besides, the Knicks weren't exactly a strong team, were they?

Bill Duffy said, "Chen, as a friend, I advise you to reconsider the New York Knicks."

Li Chen thought for a moment and said, "Those are things I'll have to consider after my rookie contract ends. Right now, I just want to win."

December 4th.

Bill Duffy called Dolan.

Dolan perked up when he saw the phone call was from Li Chen's agent, Bill Duffy.

Dolan desperately wants the Knicks to improve, but frustratingly, he can't seem to land a big fish in their lap.

His thoughts raced, and he eagerly answered the phone, "Mr. Bill, Chen, what did you say?"

Bill Duffy thought for a moment and then said truthfully, "Mr. Dolan, Chen, you said your Knicks is too strong?"

What? The Knicks are too strong? At this moment, Dolan didn't know how to express his feelings.

His face stiffened; he clearly felt that Bill Duffy was humiliating him.

Everyone knows the Knicks have been terrible under his leadership for years, so Bill Duffy saying Knicks strong is clearly sarcasm!

As for Li Chen saying that, he didn't believe it. What player would complain about their teammates being better?

If Bill Duffy knew what Dolan was really thinking, he would definitely shout that he was innocent!

At this moment Dolan coldly said, "Mr. Bill Duffy, you don't need to be so sarcastic. As long as Li Chen can come to the New York Knicks and win the championship, I don't care how much luxury tax I have to pay."

Bill Duffy's face scrunched up in a grimace, thinking to himself, "I really wasn't lying!"

So he said sincerely, "Mr. Dolan, Chen wants to prove himself, so he wants to find the worst team after his rookie season."

After Bill Duffy hung up the phone, Dolan was still a little dazed, thinking that Easterners' thinking was really strange, that some even looked down on their own teammates.

So what should he do? Should he tank? As soon as this thought crossed his mind, Dolan made up his mind: he chose to tank.

On the evening of the 4th, the Clippers faced the Cavaliers again, and the Clippers defeated the Cavaliers 96-80 at home.

James did not perform well in this game, playing 34 minutes, shooting 2-for-13, scoring 4 points, 8 assists, 6 rebounds, and making 3 of 3 three-pointers.

Throughout the game, Li Chen did not specifically target the Little Emperor James.

He's probably traumatized by Li Chen's defenses.

LeBron James' performance has once again been questioned by the media, which is bothering him.

But he was not defeated; instead, he became more resilient and trained even harder.

In this game, Li Chen scored 28 points, 12 assists, and 6 rebounds, shooting 10-for-18 from the field and 3-for-4 from three-point range and 5-for-6 from the free-throw line.

The next day, Li Chen was confronted by Avril's questioning.

"Li Chen, you're my boyfriend, shouldn't you celebrate my birthday?"

Li Chen was taken aback by the question. "Was yesterday also your birthday?" Li Chen asked, somewhat surprised.

He felt like he'd just killed a dog, thinking, "Could it be such a coincidence? Were Avril and Britney born on the same day?"

"No," Avril said matter-of-factly.

Li Chen: "..."

In a flash, Li Chen quickly explained, "Avril, I wasn't attending Britney's birthday party; I was there for a charity event."

"Really?" Avril asked suspiciously.

"Of course, you can ask Miss Britney if you don't believe me."

"Hmph, I'll trust you this time."

After a moment, Li Chen stroked his chin, thinking, "This is a good sign! At least now she cares about me."

In the following games, the Clippers defeated the Jazz 90-86 and the Timberwolves 96-94 respectively.

On February 10, the Clippers were defeated by the Kings 105-106 in a last-second loss.

Their 17-game winning streak has now come to an end.

The Clippers then went on to defeat the Dallas Mavericks, Suns, Pelicans (Hornets), Bucks, Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, and Spurs 100-99, 106-91, 109-80, 93-83, 95-85, 115-105, and 101-95 respectively, achieving a seven-game winning streak.

It's worth mentioning that the Clippers have already swept the Spurs this season.

However, the Clippers also received bad news: Malone was injured in the game against the Spurs and will be out of action for 20 days.

However, the Clippers have some good news: Elton Brand has recovered from his injury and is back in action.

Brand's experience can't compare to Karl Malone's, but it's far superior to those bench players. While it does affect the Clippers' overall strength, it's not a major factor.

On December 25th, the Clippers faced off in a crosstown derby during the Christmas Day game.

The original timeline was Lakers vs. Rockets, but due to Li Chen's appearance, the league opted for a Lakers vs. Clippers city derby.

Meanwhile, the focus shifted from the Yao Ming vs. Shaq matchup to a duel between Li Chen and Kobe Bryant, a relationship that also included mentorship and friendship.

To demonstrate his determination, Kobe went to great lengths, even selling his unborn son.

If Li Chen wins, Li Chen will be his son's godfather.

Kobe used this to prove his determination.

Meanwhile, another Christmas Day game is scheduled for this season: the Orlando Magic vs. the Cavaliers.

James secretly vowed to win this game; he was unwilling to be outdone by Li Chen.