Master of Rule Exploitation

Dwight Howard hated being disrespected, so the moment he saw Link's message, "Superman" instantly bristled.

"What do I think of Link's response? Haha, there's no need to think about it, because in a little while, you'll see who the real winner is. Both our teams are 6-0 right now, the only two undefeated teams in the league. But after today's game, there'll only be one winner left, and that spot definitely belongs to the Houston Rockets."

Before the game began, Howard accepted a courtside interview with reporters. In front of the cameras, "Superman" appeared remarkably relaxed. He laughed heartily, as if nothing had changed since his days in Orlando, as if the battered, injury-riddled Grizzlies were beneath notice.

But everyone could tell how forced Howard's smile was. They all knew he had to be furious right now, gritting his teeth and wishing he could tear Link to pieces on the spot.

Howard's smile was like a mask, meant to conceal his impatient, glory-hungry side. Unfortunately, everything he did on the court had long since exposed his true self.

Everyone knew Howard would be exceptionally ferocious in this game. These days, he did not even spare battle-hardened veterans like Kobe and Garnett.

Sure enough, the moment the reporters left, Howard's expression darkened.

He stared fixedly at Link on the other side of the court, cursing him countless times in his heart with words beginning with F.

Then Howard walked over to Harden, his face serious even when addressing his own teammate.

"James, how are you feeling?" Howard knew he could not take down the Grizzlies by himself, not even this shorthanded version of the Grizzlies.

Whether they could win today depended on Harden's form.

And Harden's form had always been a mystery. His tendency to play well one game and poorly