Successful teams easily became targets, just as other teams had previously done everything they could to end their winning streak.
And even after the streak ended, teams would take pride in beating the Pelicans, after all, the Pelicans were now League First.
Beating the Pelicans was a huge help, whether in terms of public opinion or boosting a team's morale.
The Trail Blazers had lost only one game since beating the Pelicans, a living example of that.
And to achieve that goal, some teams and some people would resort to unconventional methods, one after another.
With Davis and Ariza being taken out in succession, Tang Tian, as the team leader, needed to respond head-on.
It was a warning to their upcoming opponents, as well as the attitude he needed to display as the Team Core.
Just as he had said, he admitted that what he did was inappropriate, but he would still choose to do it.
"I admit, I caught a hint of a villainous aura from Tang, something Jordan, Kobe, and James all lack."
"As a longtime Pelicans fan, I also think Tang was impulsive this time. He'll be suspended and fined by the league. Nike and his other endorsement brands may also talk to him, and it might even affect the MVP voting."
"Yes, Superstars have too many things to worry about. That's why they need enforcers around them instead of taking matters into their own hands."
"You're all right, but from today onward, I'm Tang's diehard fan. He definitely knew about those concerns, but he still chose to do it because he put the team and his teammates first!"
"Yes, I've gotten Tang's autograph more than once. He's always passionate toward his fans. Compared with other Superstars, he's simpler and purer, and that will set him apart."