Chapter 603 - 603: Necessary "Sacrifice" (6472 words)

On Wednesday, July 16, 2008, before the opening of the ESPY Awards, a large number of celebrities gathered on the red carpet in front of the Nokia Theatre.

The 16th ESPY Awards, like previous years, opened its voting channels on June 26, allowing fans to vote for their favorite sports stars until July 11.

Where there are stars, there are fans.

This year's host was the incredibly popular Justin Timberlake, and many people arrived early to watch from the surroundings, hoping to catch a glimpse of their idol.

When New York singer Ashanti Douglas and actor Greg Kinnear appeared, they drew loud shouts from fans.

After actors Sophia Bush, Zac Efron, and Kristen Bell appeared one after another, the fans shrieked even more.

Although these big stars were not top-tier, and some had only recently become famous in recent years, under the drive of the atmosphere, they managed to create the impression of international superstars making an entrance.

Kate Walsh, who rose to fame with "Grey's Anatomy," received even louder cheers from fans when she appeared in a purple off-the-shoulder dress.

Fergie, dressed in a black dress, was a Los Angeles native.

This big star, who topped the Hot 100 singles chart last year and won the MTV Video Music Award for Female Artist of the Year, brought the atmosphere to a climax.

After so many years of development, the ESPY Awards has transformed from a purely sports awards ceremony into a popular party, with celebrities and models all eager to join the fun, and its influence seems to be growing.

Shaquille O'Neal, who was past his prime, should not have participated in this year's awards ceremony, but for the sake of the show, Shaq gladly went, for no other reason than to see his Good Brother's sullen face in person.

Shaq appeared on the red carpet in a black pinstripe suit, accompanied by a petite Black woman with a pair of explosive curves.

The two smiled happily in front of the camera:

"Has anyone seen my Good Brother? I've been looking for him for a long time!"

"Tell Kobe I love him, I'll always support him, stop reporting those boring news, I swear, that was just my impromptu performance!"

During a brief interview with an ESPN reporter, Shaq gruffly joked about recent news concerning himself, but the smile on his face made it clear to anyone that he was mocking his former teammate.

Everyone laughed at the dawdling Shaq.

Two minutes later, Kobe, in a black suit, and Vanessa, in a white gown, appeared before everyone.

Despite losing the NBA Finals, Kobe's popularity began to rebound after becoming Captain America.

As the host, he also received considerable cheers from the audience.

Fans still liked the special Mamba.

From the 21st to the 24th, the United States Mens National Basketball Team will hold a scrimmage against the Rookie team in Las Vegas.

Interestingly, Rajon Rondo of the New York Knicks also received an invitation.

After the news broke, the New York onlookers, who love to watch a good show, were all eagerly discussing one thing:

"Will Rajon Rondo and Kobe Bryant punch each other again?"

Although it was an awards ceremony tonight, the ESPN reporter was fearless.

When Kobe stopped to pose for photos, a reporter quickly and tactlessly asked:

"Kobe, Rajon Rondo has been selected for the preliminary squad. Will this further worsen your relationship?"

Kobe, who had maintained a smile, frowned slightly upon hearing that name.

He disliked being compared to a Rookie, and his expression immediately turned serious, displaying a Captain's authority:

"If he performs very well, I will accept him into the Team USA."

"I hope every player participating in the training camp cherishes this opportunity and trains hard every day. We haven't achieved anything yet."

"There's less than half a month until the Olympic Games. Everyone must stay focused. I will supervise them and take on the responsibility of a leader."

After saying this, Kobe didn't give other reporters a chance and quickly left with Vanessa, which made the ESPN reporter even more dissatisfied.

It should be noted that according to the voting results, Kobe had no chance of winning an award:

"He really thinks of himself as a superstar, damn it! When will he learn to respect us?"

An ESPN reporter who had been trying to ask a question couldn't help but complain loudly, and the surrounding media chuckled.

Finally, a few people from Fox News joked:

"Dude, because you always belittle him. If I were Kobe, you wouldn't get any news from me!"

Everyone chatted and laughed, occasionally pressing the shutter button on their cameras, while Kobe in front was particularly annoyed at this moment.

Even though he had already received the coach's approval, others still didn't accept his leadership.

"I still think you should have surgery earlier."

Noticing her husband's change in mood, Vanessa whispered softly.

The stubborn Kobe didn't respond.

He had too few honors.

An Olympic Games gold medal could bring him closer to his "dead enemy."

The two, dressed in their finest, smiled brightly in front of the cameras, but upon entering the theater, they quickly noticed some unfriendly gazes.

Some celebrities also seemed to be laughing at them.

Vanessa felt frustrated.

She disliked such an environment.

Her eldest daughter was mocked by other children, something she had never told her husband.

With a smile on her face, she began to pray in her heart:

"Please let all this pass."

At 9 PM, the Nokia Theatre was packed.

With a familiar piece of music and a string of titles, Justin Timberlake, wearing a New York Knicks away blue training uniform, bounced onto the stage:

"Let's welcome the 12-time All-Star, 10-time NBA Finals champion..."

"Come on! Man! Don't get my name wrong!"

The DJ, mimicking New York Knicks announcer Mike Walczewski, abruptly stopped at the last moment.

After apologizing, he stretched out the name "Justin Timberlake."

Amidst the laughter, Justin Timberlake stopped in the center of the stage, cupped his right hand to his ear as if listening, then ripped off his training uniform to reveal a white suit:

"I'm sorry, my Good Brother God-Lee couldn't make it tonight. A salute to him, the New York King, the modern basketball GOAT!"

Since 2006, Justin Timberlake had completely abandoned his curly hair.

At this moment, he was trying to imitate Lee's posture, but the difference in body shape caused another round of laughter in the audience.

"My relationship with Lee is pretty good, but the tickets for Madison Square Garden have been getting more and more expensive these past few years. I asked my management team why I never get front-row tickets?"

"They told me to queue! Damn queue! So I went to Los Angeles!"

"OMG! That was truly an impressive NBA Finals. I love Kobe, but I think Shaq is right, without him, Los Angeles Lakers can't win the championship!"

"Boo!!"

Boos started to sound in the theater, followed by laughter.

The director focused the camera on the dark-faced Kobe Bryant.

Justin Timberlake on stage shrugged, indicating it was his fault, then loudly said again:

"Shaq, I know you're here! What I want to say is, your impromptu performance sucked!"

Shaq, sitting near the front row, was grinning so wide his mouth almost reached the back of his head.

In the director's shot, Shaq playfully patted his chest to apologize, shouting:

"Forgive me, my Good Brother, forgive me, Kobe!"

"..."

The laughter in the theater grew louder.

The fun from this year's NBA Finals continued to this day, and "the best player" had become an abstract meme.

Kobe in the camera had no smile on his face.

If his agent hadn't suggested he come to accept the trophy, he definitely wouldn't have attended such a boring ceremony.

His efforts were being mocked, and he secretly remembered everyone's expressions.

The host always tells jokes at the opening.

After Justin Timberlake teased Kobe, he also joked about the New York Giants.

New York sports had another winning year this year, with two teams being very popular in American sports.

Garnett was also present.

After coming to Boston, his popularity further increased, but upon hearing "Boston Celtics got their ass kicked," amidst everyone's laughter, he also turned dark-faced with anger.

The awards ceremony was interspersed with Justin Timberlake's personal performances, and the atmosphere was lively.

Various awards were announced one after another until the results for Best NBA Player were revealed, which caused a stir in the theater.

In the past few years, Lee had almost monopolized this award, and his home was already piled with many trophies.

If based on the voting results, this year's Best NBA Player would still be a no-brainer.

However, ESPN was thinking about the show's effect.

After a brief discussion with Lee's management team, they quickly pushed Kobe onto the stage.

When Kobe, amidst the discussion, seriously came to the stage and raised the trophy, applause gradually appeared in the theater, then grew louder and louder, as if everyone was infected by his confidence.

"This is the first time I've won this award! I want to thank everyone who has always supported me. You have always been my motivation."

"I know many people are laughing at me, but this is how I play. I know how hard I worked to return to the NBA Finals."

"Without a doubt, I am the best player in the league! I dedicate myself to basketball, and because of that, I can't even take care of my family. I want to apologize to Vanessa, but I won't stop."

When the director aimed the camera at Vanessa in the audience, she covered her mouth and shed tears upon hearing her husband's words.

She knew what she had been through these past few years.

Thinking of his struggles with the Los Angeles Lakers over the years, Kobe was also a bit emotional.

No one understood him, and only this year's trophy counted as recognition for him:

"Basketball is sacred to me. It is my everything! God will not let down hard-working children! May God bless you all too."

The applause in the theater sounded again.

Kobe on stage pursed his lips, trying to control his excitement, and raised the trophy high.

At this moment, he truly felt that God had seen his efforts.

The awards ceremony continued, and Justin Timberlake also pulled an abstract stunt, smelling David Beckham's right foot under Victoria's witness.

In the joyous atmosphere, only Shaq was a bit unhappy.

He didn't expect Kobe to win everyone's recognition with his strong confidence.

He wanted to see his Good Brother's joke even more!

After the awards ceremony ended at 11 PM, there was a small after-party for sports stars to socialize.

When sports reporters saw Shaq walking towards Kobe, they all excitedly gathered around.

Others also showed expressions of anticipation, clearly hoping Shaq would stir things up.

"Hey, Bro! You haven't been answering my calls. I just wanted to explain that those news reports are all nonsense."

"I'm sorry you lost the NBA Finals. You know, I've always been on your side. You'll always be my Good Brother!"

The girl next to Shaq almost burst out laughing.

These past two days in the hotel, Shaq would sometimes humiliate his former teammate at night.

She didn't believe such nonsense.

Looking at Shaq's "sincere" appearance, Kobe still kept a straight face, casually responded, and then intended to leave with Vanessa.

Shaq, seeing his teammate ignoring him, immediately became anxious:

"Jerry Buss won't offer Tim Duncan a big contract! He's not as generous as you think!"

"Captain America? You'll still be humiliated by Lee next season. He'll keep humiliating you! You have no chance of winning in this game!"

"Oh."

Some people gasped when they heard Shaq's words.

No one expected O'Neal to be so direct.

Reporters who heard "Lee humiliates Kobe" were even more excited.

They wouldn't have to worry about tomorrow's news.

Kobe, who had stopped, looked even darker.

At this moment, everyone seemed to be looking at him, and their teasing eyes almost made him break down on the spot:

"Only cowards give up! I'm not interested in discussing these things with cowards. I will win the championship!"

"My career won't end at 36. I won't be panting heavily just from running like you!"

Kobe's words instantly infuriated Shaq.

He wanted to retort, but Vanessa held her husband back.

After apologizing, she quickly left.

The former teammates' verbal spat caused the theater to erupt.

The girl with the big curves was ecstatic, clinging to Shaq and posing for the cameras.

Shaq regained his composure; he liked being the center of attention:

"Yes, I'm 36! I'm old, but he's only 30!"

"I wouldn't have been schooled in the NBA Finals at 30. My Good Brother doesn't seem to realize that without me, he can't do anything!"

Shaq mocked his teammate in front of the ESPN reporters, which made a group of reporters burst into laughter.

For the first time, they felt that the awards ceremony was so exciting.

If this segment could be broadcast on Saturday, the ratings would surely explode.

Shaquille O'Neal is perfect for TV.

He always manages to stir things up.

"Shaq, would you consider joining ESPN after retirement? I think sports fans really like you!"

Shaq, who had his arm around the girl, felt a bit smug hearing such praise.

He didn't know what humility was, and at this moment, he continued to boast:

"Get your money ready! Even if I leave the NBA, I can still make big money!"

"I've already started thinking about my post-retirement job. Maybe commentating on Los Angeles Lakers games would be a good choice. You know, I'll always support my Good Brother!"

"..."

Kobe, who left the theater, had regained his composure when he got back in the car.

The driver, noticing the couple's unusual mood, remained silent.

The night in Los Angeles seemed to turn into a man-eating monster, and Vanessa grew increasingly worried about her husband's mental state:

"Let's withdraw from the Team USA! Get the surgery early, and then spend time with the children. You should rest."

After suffering a knee injury, Kobe had already lost weight, and his physical condition was declining.

Vanessa was worried about the Team USA losing, and a hopeful expression appeared on her face as she said this.

"Tomorrow I'm going to talk to the team. I will succeed!"

Kobe simply responded to his wife and said no more.

Shaquille O'Neal was right about one thing: the Buss Family was indeed not as generous as he had imagined.

In this regard, they truly couldn't compare to New York.

On Thursday, July 17, the Los Angeles Times was the first to break the news about the fun from last night's ESPY Awards.

Onlookers who read the newspaper flocked to the comments section below ESPN's news, demanding to see the unedited awards ceremony!

In El Segundo, at the Toyota Center, Jerry Buss, who had read the newspaper that morning, cursed Shaq as "ungrateful."

If he hadn't reached a consensus with Tim Duncan, he would have immediately retaliated.

At 10 o'clock, Duncan, accompanied by his wife Amy, agent Ron Scott Babbie, and investment consultant Charles Banks, appeared in the office.

Babbie was a "late bloomer," a Yale Law School graduate who had previously served as an agent for Ray Allen, Grant Hill, and others.

He was currently 58 years old, no longer young, wearing glasses, and had a polite smile on his face when they met.

Charles Banks had gray hair.

In 2006, he acquired several wineries and currently has a considerable reputation in the wine industry.

His career is developing smoothly, and he appears extremely assertive.

Kupchak and Jerry Buss and his son all stood up to welcome them, and everyone embraced warmly.

Duncan's wife Amy also smiled.

"Tim is willing to make concessions, but we need a contract of at least 4 years, Jerry Buss. I understand your concerns, but you also know that an MVP should get a max contract."

Ron Scott Babbie delivered the "notice" after taking his seat.

Jerry Buss laughed heartily, expressing agreement, but Kupchak secretly groaned, as the Los Angeles Lakers' salary cap was about to be stretched thin:

"We hope Tim can understand the team's difficulties. I know this contract seems to lack sincerity, but the team needs to strengthen itself, and some losses will be compensated through advertising."

"The championship window is within these few years. I don't want to deceive anyone."

Although Kupchak spoke sincerely, even with a pleading look on his face, Amy frowned.

The Lakers were really cutting deep!

As a veteran who had played in the league for more than 10 years, Tim Duncan was eligible for a starting salary of 35% of the salary cap, and the maximum salary increase could reach 12.5%.

Calculated this way, Duncan could earn $20.538 million next season, and a 4-year contract would be $97.56 million.

Considering that Duncan was already 32 years old and his salary in the last year of the contract would exceed 28 million, the Lakers were reluctant to pay.

They were not keen on offering overly high salaries to older players.

If calculated at 105% of his previous contract, the starting salary would be $19.96 million, which would save the Lakers a considerable sum.

Kupchak even wanted Duncan to take less, as the team's salary cap space was truly insufficient, making it difficult to strengthen the roster at present.

Among the current superstars in the league, only Clay Lee enjoyed a starting salary of 35% of the salary cap.

Besides the "Clay Lee Clause," it was also James Dolan's sincerity, making it impossible for other teams to poach him.

Ron Scott Bobby frowned upon hearing this, but when he looked at Duncan, he found that his employer did not immediately refuse.

Instead, he calmly asked:

"I want to hear the team's detailed plan. You know, I've been in San Antonio for a while."

"We will sign an excellent big man with a mid-level exception contract, and the team will not trade Lamar. Phil believes he can serve as the sixth man."

Perhaps feeling that this explanation was not convincing enough, Kupchak had to add:

"Phil and I both believe that retaining the core lineup is the best option. If you have any players you want to recruit, you can provide them to us at any time, and the team will meet all requirements."

"But considering the current salary structure, you know Tim, it's difficult for us to do much. Everyone must stick together."

If Duncan chose the max salary, then combined with Kobe and Odom's salaries, the three players' salaries would reach 55.95 million, which would almost fill the salary cap.

The previous offers from the Los Angeles media were all nonsense.

Amy worried that her husband would compromise and discreetly nudged him twice, but Duncan asked in great detail, appearing very concerned about the bench lineup.

After listening for a while, Ron Scott Bobby also frowned.

The Lakers had previously insisted on the contract length, and now they were clinging to the starting salary, which he felt lacked sincerity.

"A very good plan. I will reconsider it. If possible, I hope to receive a list of potential recruits."

Duncan did not immediately agree but instead made another request.

Kupchak, in turn, breathed a sigh of relief, believing that the other party would surely accept this proposal.

Although the third round of negotiations still did not finalize the contract extension, Jerry Buss and his Good Brother still smiled.

After Duncan left at noon, the father and son remained silent.

"I don't think they'll agree. It's difficult for us to sign an excellent big man with a mid-level exception contract in the free market."

"Moreover, the New York Knicks have rejected all our trade requests. They even stated that David Lee is untouchable and will be a key player for their G-League team next season!"

"Fuck! The league should sanction them!"

Jim Buss's anger surged when he thought of Donnie Walsh's old man's tone of "not interested in trading with you."

Phil Jackson was also not someone to be trifled with, even siding with Odom.

Looking at his Good Brother's anger, Jerry Buss remained unfazed.

He was focused on the team's revenue.

Championships were good, but not at a loss.

He said nothing about it, only asking:

"Have you signed that Dunk King? I think the fans will like him."

"..."

Jim Buss was speechless for a moment.

His father was talking about Gerald Green, and this signing was purely for ticket sales.

Thinking that the team had made no other moves in the free market, he could only nod in response:

"His agent has verbally agreed."

Jerry Buss nodded with satisfaction, seemingly understanding his Good Brother's thoughts.

Leaning back in his seat, he earnestly instructed:

"I've spoken to many people. No one will actively trade with the New York Knicks. For the next few years, they can only acquire Rookie players at the end of the first round and in the second round."

"Our opportunity will come in two years. I know many young players' contracts expire in 2010. You should understand what that means."

Looking at his father's meaningful gaze, Jim Buss took a deep breath.

Clearly, the previous negotiations were all empty promises.

Duncan and his entourage were warmly entertained by the Buss Family during lunch.

Jeanie Buss consistently spoke up for the team, even proactively discussing Phil Jackson's tactical changes for the next season.

Amy thoroughly enjoyed this lifestyle.

When they returned home in the afternoon, before her husband could even sit down, she loudly suggested:

"We need more salary, Tim. You should be like Lee, get the max salary. The Lakers will agree. Maybe we can visit other cities."

Charles Banks, who had not given specific advice until now, suddenly spoke up.

As an investment consultant, he agreed with Amy's point from another perspective:

"Many high-quality properties in Los Angeles are currently on sale at reduced prices, Tim. This is our opportunity. Buy these high-quality assets, and they will appreciate in less than two years!"

"Maybe we can open a gym. I think that business is good!"

Amy took over the conversation again, and while doing so, she pulled Duncan into imagining the gym business.

Duncan nodded in agreement to his wife's suggestion, but he still hadn't fully made up his mind to demand the max salary:

"Our current savings are enough to open a gym, and Charles will help you find the property you want."

As Grant Hill's former agent, Ron Scott Bobby saw Duncan's inclination.

The old man was kind, and he had to speak the unpleasant truth beforehand:

"Tim, players should not compromise on salary. In New York, this would never happen. Clay Lee can even help role players get higher salaries."

"If you choose to take a pay cut, no one will appreciate you, and some will even look down on you because of it! This is the NBA. Don't empathize with the team."

"We can totally leave Los Angeles. I've already received an invitation from Portland. The Portland Trail Blazers have accumulated excellent talent."

Upon hearing about moving, Amy's eyes widened.

She loved life in Los Angeles too much.

Noticing his wife's gaze, Duncan waved his hand and explained in a peculiar tone:

"I just want to give myself one last chance. If I were to go to another team, I'd rather return to San Antonio."

"..."

Ron Scott Bobby stopped advising.

The old man sighed silently.

Women cause trouble.

He disliked the Buss Family's attitude and even more, Kobe's poor performance in the NBA Finals.

His wife's good mood influenced Duncan.

He was willing to make sacrifices for his family.

Having made up his mind, he immediately texted Kobe back:

"Everyone has to make necessary sacrifices, man. I think we can succeed."

The fun in Los Angeles also spread widely in New York.

On YouTube, a blurry video of Shaq and Kobe arguing at the Nokia Theatre had already appeared.

Lee was completely unconcerned about this.

His earnings had reached the most critical moment, and he had been commuting between Manhattan and Greenwich for the past half-month.

Last night, he had just accepted John Paulson's invitation and brought the little ones to a family gathering.

This afternoon, the Axe Capital team visited Paulson & Co. Inc. together.

Also profiting from this Wall Street crisis, Paulson & Co. Inc. earned a lot, with managed assets exceeding 9 billion, but after moving to an office across from Radio City Music Hall, it remained as simple as ever.

No artwork, no luxurious office suites.

The old black sofas and numerous folders surprised the group.

Compared to Axe Capital, which had nearly 200 people, this place had only "a few cats and dogs," and not many employees, which completely defied everyone's expectations.

The accompanying management was freely socializing.

Lee took off his suit jacket and entered Paulson's office with Bobby, who was casually dressed in a black short-sleeved T-shirt. Seeing the photos on the table, he joked:

"Paul told us that you were very popular at Wall Street parties in the past. Now I believe it. When you were young, you both looked really cool!"

The photo was time-stamped: a 28-year-old Paulson and a 25-year-old Paul Pellegrini holding champagne, laughing wildly, completely different from their 50-year-old selves.

Now, both had hair loss issues...

Bobby was also surveying the office, which was so plain it made him feel a pang of sadness.

Perhaps understanding the meaning in his gaze, John Paulson chuckled self deprecatingly:

"I'm outdated. Actually, I always dreamed of my trading moment, but I still failed this time. Paul made the right choice."

Despite his receding hairline, Paulson, with his full head of black hair, still looked very gentlemanly.

When he smiled, he could be called a handsome old man, much better than the Italian whose hair was mostly gone.

Pellegrini, hearing his old friend's teasing, awkwardly took off his black-rimmed glasses and said tiredly:

"I'm very sorry about Bear Stearns. We really couldn't help. It wasn't in our interest."

In his early years at Boston Consulting Group, Paulson made many "big shots" on Wall Street.

Bear Stearns held a consulting meeting in Boston not long ago, and his old boss asked for help, but it ended unpleasantly.

"They are still very confident. We calculated that Bear Stearns announced huge losses for two of its funds, and revenue will experience a significant decline next quarter."

"I don't know how they plan to get through this crisis—the Federal Government? The Federal Reserve? They won't last until then."

Bobby watched the other party explain earnestly.

This was basically an open admission that Axe Capital would continue to short them.

The other party's approach of not solving the problem but trying to solve the people was truly arrogant.

"I know, Lee told me last night, but I still held onto some hope. Now I just want to understand the news from the Federal Government and what your next step will be."

Hearing Paulson change the subject, Bobby shrugged.

There weren't many short sellers with large profits, and everyone pretty much knew what the Federal Government's final choice would be.

"It's highly likely that the regulatory committee and the House of Representatives will hold a hearing. Whoever earns more should bear greater responsibility."

Lee's tone was relaxed.

Seeing Paulson's grim face, he added another jab:

"This is like a superhero. In times of crisis, they must appear. We will agree, then buy high-quality CDOs and fulfill the Federal Government's requirements."

"They are exploiting taxpayers!"

Paulson's face showed anger.

The so-called financial crisis began when offshore hedge fund companies' financial games collapsed.

The biggest losers were always the ordinary taxpayers.

Regarding the American people's impending hardship, everyone in the room unanimously condemned it, then turned around and began planning how to continue making money:

"How about targeting British banks?"

Bobby suddenly suggested in a deep voice.

Paulson thought for a moment and slowly nodded.

This time, the short sellers had spontaneously formed an alliance and still had to advance and retreat together.

Pellegrini quietly breathed a sigh of relief.

Axe Capital had expanded wildly in the past two years, and by the end of the year, the funds under its control might exceed 30 billion.

It had now completely transformed and no longer relied excessively on insider trading.

Lee didn't want the atmosphere to be too tense, as "family culture" was the foundation of Axe Capital.

As long as they made money together, they were all "family":

"I love England! When I went to Manchester two years ago, some people protested my acquisition of Manchester United."

"Now it's time to make them feel awe! I love this kind of revenge plot."

"You truly are a devil!"

The old man Pellegrini praised with a laugh, and the tense atmosphere dissipated.

Lee merely raised an eyebrow.

He thought it would be good to make a profit from British banks first, then invest in the Carrington Training Centre to get a loan.

Earning money in England and then spending a little bit there.

Perhaps when Manchester United fans see the news, they will likely be filled with awe when Red Football Capital is mentioned again.

On Friday, July 18th, the New York Knicks, who had made a splash in the Summer League, finally made their presence known in the free market.

Early in the morning, a New York Times column article provided detailed information:

"General Manager Donnie Walsh has finalized two deals. Ron Artest and Raja Bell will continue to play for the team in the future."

"The former will accept a contract with a starting salary of $8 million, and the latter will receive a contract with a starting salary of $6 million. Negotiations are currently in their final stages."

The contract length had not yet been finalized, but undoubtedly, next season, the New York Knicks' payroll would officially exceed 100 million, surpassing the Dallas Mavericks to become the highest-spending team in the league.

Since both players' agent was Mark Bartelstein, New York reporters didn't dig into the vague answers.

In short, this was most likely Lee's intention again.

Flattery still had some use.

Lee didn't mind helping his brothers get raises.

As for the situation of "having money, what's there to fear," the former Good Brothers had already set an example.

The Las Vegas Summer League was nearing its end, and Patrick Ewing Jr.'s "superstar" performance was also drawing to a close.

The Rookie Chalmers was already green with envy.

This second-round pick was completely unreasonable.

Early in the morning, a group of reporters surrounded Patrick Ewing Jr.

Under the barrage of microphones, the superstar's son showed a resolute expression and said earnestly:

"Yes, I saw the news. I can't wait to welcome the new season with everyone!"

"It's an honor to receive guidance from Uncle Lee. I will dedicate all my time to basketball, and I believe the New York Knicks will continue to win championships!"

"..."

Chalmers had already discovered a certain pattern.

This backdoor player kept saying "Uncle Lee," which made him start to doubt the atmosphere in the New York Knicks locker room.

Gary Neal seemed not to have lied to him.

The "veteran" who was warming up couldn't help but shake his head silently when he saw the Rookie's envious look.

He leaned next to him, and Gary Neal quickly offered his opinion:

"Man, I didn't lie to you! As long as Lee is happy, you can get into the 12-man active roster. Practice your orange-squeezing skills more, and you'll thank me!"

"What?"

Chalmers had a puzzled look.

12th man? He had seen the news in the newspaper.

Jose Barea was likely going to play in Dallas.

He could compete with the Rookie Rajon Rondo!

The Team USA's mini training camp was also currently in Las Vegas.

Kobe, as captain, was already in a bad mood early in the morning after seeing the New York Knicks' news, and his face darkened even more when he saw Rajon Rondo's sour expression.

Andre Iguodala and others who were invited also arrived at the training camp early.

At this time, Rajon Rondo was giving a "lecture," completely disregarding the Mamba's feelings:

"We probably won't make the national team, but we can make the coaching staff see who the fakes are!"

"Don't be polite with him! We need to unite and sacrifice for each other. I'll teach you how to win! I'll share my championship experience without reservation."

"..."

....

By the way, don't forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me :)