The Memphis Grizzlies crushed the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers in a back-to-back game, undoubtedly becoming the biggest upset of the day—bar none.
On January 3, after the game ended, it became the matchup everyone was talking about. And whenever that game came up, the showdown between Link and Kobe was inevitably a topic no one could avoid.
"Tom Lin—Link—I've lost track of how many times we've mentioned him lately. But ever since he entered the league, his aura of magic has never faded. In yesterday's game, Link defended Kobe exceptionally well. It was his outstanding performance during the rotation minutes that laid the foundation for the Grizzlies' victory."
"The Los Angeles Lakers paid the price for their arrogance, and I'm sure you don't realize that the Memphis Grizzlies have quietly put together a five-game winning streak. They're now 17-17, just one step away from eighth place in the West. Oh, and it's worth mentioning that since Link joined the Grizzlies, they've played five games—and won all five. I think that says enough."
"The Houston Rockets letting Link go has already proven to be a mistake. Ever since he dropped 52 points in the G League, he's been unstoppable. In five games with the Grizzlies, Link has averaged 15.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. Without question, those are dazzling numbers. Not every player on a ten-day contract can deliver this kind of performance. Unless something unexpected happens, Memphis should offer Link a guaranteed contract. And Link will become a key piece in the Grizzlies' push for the playoffs."
The next day, at his home in Memphis, Link discovered that every major TV program was running news about him. He had put up strong performances before, but he had never received this much attention. Even when he started and scored