After Chen Xi scored, possession went back to the Nets.
Brooklyn still had a chance to hit a game-winner of their own!
So the entire New York team immediately launched another full-court press.
This time, Claxton took the ball out.
For one thing, he was tall, with a better view of the court. Maybe he could spot a teammate in a better position and get him the ball.
For another, if Durant, Harden, and George couldn't get open, at least Claxton wouldn't be left as a target for the Knicks' Hack-a-Shaq.
Although... most teams wouldn't choose such an aggressive tactic with the score tied.
But these were the Knicks!
And they had Chen Xi!
Chen Xi, who had just scored 78 points in a single game and hit four straight clutch shots. Chen Xi, who was clearly seeing red!
More importantly, Chen Xi was a repeat offender!
When the score was tied, he'd deliberately fouled an opposing big man who couldn't make free throws, then taken the ball back and finished the game himself. He'd really done it before! More than once!
Nicholas Zhao Si himself, along with Giannis from across the way, knew that all too well—and hated it with a passion...
Back to the court.
Claxton stood nervously beyond the baseline, holding the ball in both hands as he prepared to inbound.
On the court, Chen Xi was still glued to Harden, refusing to give him a chance to receive the ball.
So Zhao Si sent it to George on the other side without hesitation.
This time, the inbound pass was clean!
Paul George caught the ball securely, then turned and pushed upcourt.
At the same time, the entire New York team immediately retreated to the backcourt.
Chen Xi also quickly turned and took up position in front