Volume 5: Unrivaled

Everyone was a superstar. Even if you always beat me, won more championships, MVPs, and All-NBA First Team selections than I did, why should I be considered beneath you? On the other end, Paul continued targeting Lopez in the pick-and-roll, but this time Capela's screen was not solid enough. Jaylen Brown got into position early and quickly fought through the screen. Under heavy pressure, Paul's mid-range jumper clanked off the rim. The Rockets were united and full of confidence, bolstered by their regular-season record against the Warriors. This season, Harden's step-back three had become his signature move, and he shot it at an incredibly high percentage. It was hard for fans to understand why Wiggins still dared to give Harden half a step of space. The Warriors had originally run some motion and cutting plays, but the Rockets switched everything with great determination, giving the Warriors no open looks. Their passing and cutting game was shut down, and it always ended up becoming a mismatch isolation or pick-and-roll, relying on individual talent to solve the problem. This season, Harden had welcomed Paul and produced the best performance of his career. An All-NBA First Team selection was practically guaranteed, but Curry had played even better, and the Warriors were ranked above the Rockets, once again holding Harden down. Harden knew Paul had that ability and was willing to be the supporting piece at his side. Lopez retreated step by step, firmly boxing Capela out behind him. At the same time, Antetokounmpo left Tucker open and collapsed toward the basket to help. First, Curry and Rose had monopolized the All-NBA First Team backcourt spots. Later, injuries finally knocked Rose down, only for Westbrook to snatch a spot with his history-making triple-double average. He was about to face the greatest enemy of his