223 Consecutive 5 Seasons MVP! League Most Improved Player Award?

In their fifth game, the Knicks faced the rising force of the Eastern Conference, the Toronto Raptors. The young Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady displayed astonishing talent, combining for more than 50 points. But before the Knicks' mature system and Li Fei's absolute strength, their talent still seemed immature. With a near triple-double of 45 points, 17 rebounds, and 9 blocks, Li Fei taught the two gifted cousins a proper lesson. 118–102. The Knicks cruised to another consecutive victory.

Five games, five victories. The Knicks continued charging ahead with unstoppable momentum, firmly holding the league's top spot. Their overwhelming strength made the entire league tremble.

Meanwhile, changes were quietly taking place with the Los Angeles Lakers on the West Coast.

Shaquille O'Neal, who had neglected training early in the season due to the league lockout, had once seen his weight soar to nearly 160 kilograms. But as the season progressed—especially after being taught a lesson by Li Fei's Knicks—the league's most dominant center finally began taking things seriously.

He hired professional nutritionists and trainers, began strictly controlling his diet, and increased his training workload. As he used games as training, his weight gradually dropped back to around 150 kilograms—his "fighting weight."

The loss of weight allowed him to regain his explosiveness and agility around the basket. The Big Shark who wreaked havoc in the paint was back.

Kobe Bryant, meanwhile, continued the superb form he had shown after his battle with Li Fei.

That honorable loss seemed to have opened up his inner potential, elevating both his confidence and competitive drive to a whole new level. He trained harder, played more decisively, and looked increasingly at ease whether pulling up for jumpers, fading away from the post, or driving with the ball.

Over their last five games, the Lakers had