"I know exactly how strong the Knicks are right now."
"Li Fei was at his peak at twenty-four. His physique was unbeatable, his form was unbeatable, and his skills were unbeatable."
"Houston, Sprewell, and Marshall each fulfilled their roles, and the roster had developed perfect chemistry."
"This Dynasty lineup had no obvious weaknesses."
"The Heat looked like a strong team, but their ceiling was limited. They simply had no absolute confidence in beating the Knicks."
"I won't go to a team with less than a thirty percent chance of winning just to keep losing as a sidekick."
With that, the Heat's second contract offer was likewise rejected outright.
Gus nodded lightly, having expected this outcome long ago.
He then took out the final offer—the most outrageous and most talked-about proposal of them all.
It came from the Houston Rockets of the Western Conference.
The Rockets offered a one-year, $18 million maximum contract, the highest salary package among the three teams.
"The Rockets' recruitment plan is completely crazy," Gus said.
"They already have the Big Three of Pippen, Barkley, and Olajuwon."
"Now they're willing to clear out part of their rotation resources and sign you for a huge salary."
"Their goal is to build an unprecedented super lineup of four aging stars."
"Jordan, Pippen, Barkley, and Olajuwon—four legendary superstars joining forces to chase a title."
"They wanted to gamble on one last peak from their veterans and make a run at a sunset Dynasty."
"If it came together, this four-star lineup would have the fame and pedigree to crush the entire league."
After hearing the introduction, a flicker of emotion finally appeared on Jordan's face.
It was not temptation, but deep helplessness and rejection.
He even gave a self-mocking chuckle, his eyes filled with refusal.
"Four old stars? A sunset retirement