Likewise, the Cavaliers' goal was clear. There was still enough time, and if they could get a stop here, their chances would improve considerably.
James was fully focused. He left Butler alone and switched onto Chen Xi.
In situations like this, the Thunder would almost certainly give the ball to Chen Xi to take the shot.
Sure enough, just as James expected, the Thunder passed the ball to Chen Xi.
At a critical moment like this, when facing a top League star in a clutch possession, Chen Xi was the better choice from every angle.
First, Chen Xi was the most consistent player on the team when it came to creating his own shot. His clutch shooting percentage was extremely high.
Second, a big stage like this, in a critical moment against James's defense, was an ideal proving ground for a young player. Whether he made the shot or not, the experience would be a great help to his future.
And Chen Xi himself naturally wasn't going to turn down such an opportunity.
It wasn't a game-winning shot, but it was still a possession that could decide the game. Chen had rehearsed this moment countless times in his head before falling asleep!
He lowered his center of gravity, dribbled between his legs, and stared straight at Old Zhan.
After two crossovers, he made his move!
Chen Xi attacked with a quick Crossover Step.
James reacted quickly, sliding over at once to cut him off.
But after taking just two steps, Chen Xi quickly followed with a Step-back, then used Hesitation Bait Buddha to draw James's defensive footwork forward.
Then came a Push Dribble Change of Direction. He drove past Old Zhang on the left and stepped inside the three-point line.
Though he'd lost the initiative because of a misread, James