Paul George hadn't come to Los Angeles to enjoy California's sunshine and the ocean views at BMW Mountain Garden.
He had only celebrated his thirtieth birthday a few weeks ago, which meant he was no longer one of the league's young players.
From this point on, even George himself had no idea how long he could maintain his peak form. He wasn't Link, still able to play like a twenty-three-year-old at thirty-two.
Now, wasting even one more year was extremely dangerous for him.
For Link, a championship might simply be a reward he would "naturally" earn after working hard for a season.
But for most other players, it was a glory they dreamed of!
Paul George also wanted to prove himself with a championship. And if he could win one by beating Link, that would be even better!
Therefore, even though the game had just begun, even though this was only Link's first possession of the day—
George still brought out two hundred percent of his ability. From the very start, he was going to pressure Link!
Link slowly dribbled toward the three-point line as George spread his long arms, expanding his defensive coverage as much as possible.
At that moment, Link suddenly made two hard crossover dribbles, looking as though he could drive at any second.
But George knew he couldn't back up. Even half a step of retreat would let Link rise directly into a three-point jumper!
Just as George hesitated, Link suddenly drove to his right.
George was still considering whether Link might shoot, so his reaction came a little late.
More accurately, George's reaction wasn't actually slow. But against the fastest first step in the league, being half a beat slow meant getting blown right by.
Link's drive was faster and more vicious than George's earlier