The Old Man's First Adjustment

122-105.

Even when he went to bed that night, Popovich still couldn't get those two bloody numbers out of his mind.

The Spurs, who had allowed the fourth-fewest points in the league during the regular season, had given up 122 points to the Grizzlies. Their supposedly flawless wings had let Link and Butler combine for 60 points.

Every result pointed to one fact—trying to contain the Grizzlies through defense was nearly impossible.

Link's ability to create scoring opportunities was simply too strong. He could even go through Leonard's legs—what couldn't he do?

Whenever he thought of Link, Popovich grew immensely frustrated and tossed and turned, unable to sleep.

Every provocation, every bit of trash talk, and even every spectacular basket from that Grizzlies number two replayed endlessly in Popovich's mind.

Link had completely become Popovich's nightmare!

Thinking about all that mess, Popovich suddenly sat upright. He looked at the clock on the wall—it was already three in the morning!

This was the first time Popovich had suffered from insomnia after a loss.

The old man got up, poured himself a glass of water, and gradually calmed down.

The Grizzlies had indeed played well in Game 1. It wasn't just the players; Joerger's coaching performance had also exceeded Popovich's expectations.

They had been the first to roll out a one-big, four-small lineup, allowing the Grizzlies to seize the initiative from the very beginning.

Although they had fallen behind in the first quarter, the Grizzlies quickly adjusted and regained control of the game.

Looking at it that way, the Spurs would also have to start the next game with a one-big, four-small lineup.

Popovich had to make sure the Spurs possessed their strongest offensive firepower from the opening tip.

Offensive firepower, offense...

Standing before the floor-to-ceiling window in his room, Popovich looked