Old Soldiers Never Die!

May 12, 2010.

The Boston Celtics defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers led by LeBron James in their home arena.

James looked dejected after the game. Garnett took the initiative to approach him and whispered once again, "Man, don't let loyalty ruin you."

This time, James showed no unusual reaction on his face.

After all, he now had a clear plan for the future.

Meanwhile.

The Phoenix Suns defeated the Dallas Mavericks on the road.

Steve Nash also offered his sincere blessings to his former teammate Dirk Nowitzki, who wept on the court.

As for Mark Cuban, who had once let an MVP-caliber Steve Nash leave in order to save money, he instinctively avoided Nash's gaze when he saw it directed his way.

The matchups for the Eastern and Western Conference Finals of the 2009-2010 NBA Playoffs were officially set.

Eastern Conference: Orlando Magic vs. Boston Celtics.

Western Conference: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns.

Uh...

What a coincidence!

After all those twists and turns, it actually matched his previous life exactly.

On May 16, 2010, the Eastern Conference Finals tipped off first.

The road team, the Boston Celtics, struck first, with Tracy McGrady facing his former team.

Defending McGrady was his cousin, "Vince Carter."

After the two brothers had fallen out, they had been at odds for a time. But as they grew older and gained more experience, their relationship had long since been repaired. Still, they went at each other fiercely on the court, like needle against awl.

However, McGrady, who was in comparatively better physical condition and possessed greater basketball talent, still held the upper hand.

Against Dwight Howard, the top center in the Eastern Conference, the Celtics defended him extremely well.

Kendrick Perkins guarded him head-on, while Garnett provided help defense. It was worth