After the second quarter began, Link's sudden burst of energy instantly turned the tide of the game by 180 degrees.
Luka Dončić was completely suppressed by Link. This super talent failed to score a single point under Link's two successful defensive stops.
Dončić, who had just climbed back up from the floor, still felt some pain in his chest. He truly had no idea how Link had managed to get back up and immediately start sprinting as if nothing had happened.
Dončić, who had been overflowing with confidence just moments ago, now felt incredibly nervous.
Once Link truly decided to make his move, the situation seemed to immediately spiral out of control.
Now, the gap was down to just 1 point. The advantage the Dallas Mavericks had fought so desperately for in the first quarter was effortlessly erased by the Grizzlies.
Dončić knew that no matter what, he had to keep stepping up and stabilize things for the Mavericks.
So afterward, Dončić continued to go at Conley in isolation.
But now, Dončić had to watch out for more than just Conley. He also had to keep an eye on Link at all times.
Dončić had just experienced that guy's defensive range firsthand.
No matter where he was, Link would silently close in and make the defensive play.
This time, Dončić used a beautiful sudden stop and change of direction while driving, shaking Conley completely off balance.
Dončić's moves were not as flashy as Kelly Irving's and the like, but they were exceptionally effective.
What he pursued was the most efficient way to shake off defenders, not showmanship.
After getting past Conley, Dončić cautiously glanced at Link.
When he saw that Link had not rotated over to help, he finally felt safe enough to put up a floater.
Swish!
The basketball