Basketball System: Hate Makes Me Unstoppable-Chapter 369: Solutions Outnumber Problems.

The Cavaliers started their season on the right foot, shaking off last year's championship night disappointment with a 117-107 victory over the Warriors.

Han Sen led the charge with a triple-double: 34 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists. Nikola Jokic added 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Derrick Rose chipped in with 18 points and Dwyane Wade contributed 13 points. Even Dewayne Dedmon played a pivotal role, securing 8 points and 7 rebounds.

On the Warriors' side, Stephen Curry put up 27 points and 7 assists, DeMarcus Cousins tallied an impressive 25 points and 15 rebounds, and Klay Thompson contributed 18 points. However, it wasn't enough to overcome Cleveland's determination.

"It was a tough night, but we showed we're committed to winning," Coach Michael Malone summarized in the post-game press conference.

Despite their success, the Cavaliers' 25% shooting from beyond the arc painted a grim picture. What saved them was their dominance on the boards, securing 44 total rebounds, including 17 on the offensive glass—a number that surpassed most games from the previous two seasons.

After the season-opening victory, the Cavaliers strung together wins against the Hornets and Wizards, starting 3-0. However, they faltered against the Trail Blazers before bouncing back with victories over the Nets and Thunder. A subsequent loss to the Bucks left them with a 5-2 record through seven games.

To fans, the opening night struggles seemed like a fluke, just poor shooting. But Malone understood it as a symptom of a bigger issue: the team's rhythm and shot creation had been lacking.

For now, the Cavaliers leaned heavily on their two superstars, Han Sen and Nikola Jokic, to carry them. While Derrick Rose and Dewayne Dedmon showed flashes of brilliance, the rest of the roster struggled to find consistency.

Yet, their problems extended beyond their roster. The league's dynamics, dictated in part by commissioner Adam Silver, added an extra layer of difficulty.

Since Han's first championship in 2012 with the Grizzlies, UA-sponsored players had dominated the league, winning every title for the past six years. While Silver valued Han as a global icon, he wasn't eager to see UA monopolize the league's success or for Han—a foreign player—to become the NBA's ultimate figurehead. The Cavaliers faced unfavorable whistles in critical moments as a result, making it harder to build the dynasty they aimed for.

As if internal and external pressures weren't enough, bad news struck just before their upcoming game against the Pelicans. Derrick Rose, who had been pivotal off the bench, suffered a Grade 3 ankle sprain in the game against Milwaukee after a flagrant foul by Greg Monroe. Initially, Rose thought it was minor, but further scans revealed he'd be sidelined for at least a month.

The injury wasn't just physical. It was emotional. This marked Rose's 24th injury in his ten-year NBA career. At only 29 years old, his body had endured more than most players twice his age. Exhausted by the cycle of recovery and reinjury, Rose was seriously contemplating retirement.

The Cavaliers, reeling from the loss of their sixth man, boarded the flight to New Orleans.

During the flight, Malone and Tyronn Lue brainstormed adjustments, the sudden development having disrupted their entire game plan. Later, Malone approached Han Sen to discuss one potential solution.

He leaned in, lowering his voice. "Han, what do you think about Kuzma? Can we count on him?"

Malone had learned Kuzma had joined Han's exclusive breakfast club—a testament to the rookie's dedication. Han didn't hesitate.

"He's ready," Han replied. "He's not the most gifted athlete, but he works harder than anyone else. Give him a shot."

Malone nodded, reassured. If Han vouched for a player, it was as good as gold.

---

The Pelicans, like the Cavaliers, entered the matchup with a 5-2 record, riding a four-game win streak. New Orleans was abuzz with excitement, the matchup against Cleveland being one of their few nationally televised games this season. ESPN hyped the clash, and local media ran non-stop coverage.

In public practice ahead of the game, a throng of reporters surrounded Han Sen. Questions about Rose dominated the conversation. One journalist from TNT probed directly, "Is there a chance Rose might retire?"

Han's answer was simple. "I don't know," he said truthfully.

The topic shifted to LeBron James. An NBC reporter asked for Han's thoughts on LeBron's earlier claim to being "the best player in the world."

Han smirked. "If you can crown yourself, then I suppose you can call yourself the best."

Han's jab was loaded with sarcasm. Over the summer, LeBron had made headlines with publicity stunts, including a self-crowning gesture during a New Orleans Saints game. Han's comments only added fuel to the fire.

To cap off the exchange, Han slyly recommended the reporters read The True Story of Ah Q by Lu Xun. While the reference went over most of their heads, Han found satisfaction in their confused expressions.

(TL/n: Han's recommendation of The True Story of Ah Q by Lu Xun is a layered critique aimed at LeBron's public persona and his self-proclaimed title of "the best player in the world." The novella, a staple of Chinese literature, is a satirical commentary on self-deception, misplaced pride, and blind optimism in the face of adversity. The protagonist, Ah Q, often consoles himself with a distorted sense of superiority and exaggerated self-worth, despite his repeated failures and humiliations.

By suggesting this story, Han is subtly mocking LeBron's actions, implying that his public self-crowning is akin to Ah Q's delusions of grandeur. Han is essentially calling out LeBron for creating his own narrative of greatness rather than earning it through undeniable dominance or championships.)

---

Game day arrived, and the Smoothie King Center was packed to capacity, a rare sight outside All-Star Weekend. Fans held up signs in support of LeBron, their anticipation palpable. Nike had gone all-in on marketing their remaining Western Conference star, aware that the Pelicans were their last true superteam.

TNT's broadcast opened with split-screen shots of Han Sen and LeBron James warming up. One had declared himself the best, while the other was widely regarded as the league's most dominant force. Their rivalry, dating back to the 2009-10 season, was far from over.

Beyond the stars, the game promised another intriguing matchup: Jokic versus Anthony Davis. Jokic was averaging 22.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 6.4 assists, cementing himself as an elite big man. Davis, despite slightly declining stats—26.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks—remained a formidable presence.

---

The familiar set of Inside the NBA buzzed with energy as Ernie Johnson opened the show with a big smile.

"Welcome back, folks! We've got a heavyweight clash tonight—Han Sen and the Cleveland Cavaliers, fresh off their championship ceremony, taking on LeBron James and the surging New Orleans Pelicans. Guys, let's dive in. Shaq, what's the bigger storyline here? Han's dig at LeBron, or the game itself?"

Shaquille O'Neal leaned back with his signature smirk. "Come on, Ernie. It's always the game. But that comment? That's classic Han. 'Crown yourself and call yourself the best'? He's not wrong, but LeBron's been doing that since Miami, so nothing new there."

Kenny Smith nodded thoughtfully. "I mean, Shaq's right. LeBron's always been about the spotlight, but let's not forget—he's backing it up so far this season. Averaging 30 points, carrying New Orleans to five wins. It's not empty talk."

Charles Barkley jumped in with a laugh. "Carrying? Kenny, LeBron's playing for headlines. All that crowning nonsense? That's not leadership; that's theater. You see Han doing stuff like that? Nah. He's out here winning rings, making teams better. LeBron's just trying to stay relevant."

Ernie interjected to steer the discussion. "Alright, let's bring it back to the matchup. Both teams are 5-2, but Cleveland's coming off some rocky performances. Rose is out with another injury, and there's chatter about him retiring. How big of a loss is this for the Cavs, Chuck?"

"Man, it's a big loss," Charles said, shaking his head. "Rose was ballin' upto that point. He's their spark off the bench. Without him, they're gonna lean even harder on Han and Jokic, and that's dangerous for their long-term hopes."

Shaq chimed in. "You know who needs to step up? Kuzma. That kid's got potential. He's in Han's 'breakfast club,' right? If Han's got faith in him, then I do too. But tonight? It's all on Han and Jokic to dominate."

Ernie turned the spotlight to Kenny. "What about New Orleans? Are they legit, or is this early-season hype?"

Kenny gestured at the screen showing Anthony Davis and LeBron highlights. "They're legit. AD's a monster, and LeBron's still LeBron. But this is their first big test against a championship team. If they win, they're sending a message to the league. If they lose? Same old Pelicans."

Ernie closed with a question for the group. "Alright, predictions. Who takes it?"

Shaq didn't hesitate. "Cavs. Han's not losing to LeBron in prime time."

Kenny scratched his head. "I'll go Pelicans. Home crowd, momentum, and LeBron's on fire."

Charles smirked. "Cavs. Han's about to remind LeBron why he's the best. And I'm tired of LeBron's soap opera."

Ernie wrapped up. "There you have it, folks. The stage is set. Cavs versus Pelicans, Han versus LeBron, AD versus Jokic. Tip-off is next!"

---

After the opening ceremony, the starting lineups for both teams were revealed.

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Pelicans: Jrue Holiday, E'Twaun Moore, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Aron Baynes

Cavaliers: Han Sen, Kyle Korver, Robert Covington, Tristan Thompson, Nikola Jokic

In a last-minute move during free agency, the Pelicans signed Aron Baynes to a mid-level contract to pair with Davis in the frontcourt.

Baynes, who came up through the Spurs system, isn't the ideal stretch big, but his physicality and knack for grabbing offensive rebounds make him a great defensive asset, easing Davis' burden on that end. After all, while Davis is the most dominant big man of the small-ball era, his injury-prone nature means consistent physical battles in the paint could cost him half a season.

Amid the roaring cheers of New Orleans fans, Davis secured the opening tip for the Pelicans.

LeBron James wasted no time, orchestrating a pick-and-roll with Davis on the first possession. Cleveland's defensive strategy was to sag off LeBron's mid-range shot, but Davis' roll to the basket was far quicker than anticipated. The moment Davis slipped the screen, he lost Thompson completely.

LeBron lobbed the ball high above the rim, and Davis soared to finish with a thunderous alley-oop dunk.

The play was a perfect showcase of Davis' unmatched combination of agility and explosiveness as a big man. His blend of elite static measurements (6'10" | 2.08m height, 7'5" | 2.26m wingspan) and dynamic athleticism is why he was a no-brainer No. 1 overall pick back in the day. Titles like "Son of America," akin to being named "Captain America," aren't handed out lightly.

But what truly sets Davis apart is his defense.

When Han Sen and Jokic attempted a pick-and-roll, the Pelicans didn't overcommit with aggressive traps like the Warriors. Instead, they opted for a straightforward switch. Jokic received the ball from Han and attacked the paint, managing to elude Holiday's swipe at the ball. But as he went up for the shot, Davis came from behind to deliver a clean chase-down block.

Jokic seemed stunned.

A player as intelligent as Jokic always keeps track of defenders' positions. Yet, Davis' defensive presence is overwhelming, covering massive ground in a flash. He's the kind of player who could be standing at the free-throw line or even inside the paint, and still block a three-point attempt if you hesitate for a moment too long.

Draymond Green is often touted as the epitome of a mobile defensive anchor, but compared to Davis, Green falls short. The next player who might rival this level of defensive intimidation is the highly anticipated Victor Wembanyama.

With one offensive highlight and one defensive masterclass, Davis firmly established his dominance in the opening moments. It's no wonder LeBron agreed to forego the flexibility of a 1+1 deal to play alongside him.

Following the block, Davis used his speed and agility to grab the rebound, immediately sparking a fast break. LeBron, already near midcourt, caught Davis' outlet pass and threw down a signature tomahawk dunk.

As the Pelicans retreated to defense, LeBron and Davis exchanged an emphatic high-five, their energy palpable.

LeBron's elation was clear. Away from the constant noise and criticism in Golden State, he was thriving in transition, free of Draymond Green's constant barking. With Holiday and Davis as defensive anchors, LeBron showcased what "bankai fast break" truly meant.

(TL/n: "Bankai fast break" is a playful reference to the Bleach anime and manga series. In Bleach, a "bankai" is the ultimate and most powerful transformation or release of a Soul Reaper's zanpakuto (spiritual sword). It represents peak power, speed, and ability—essentially a game-changing move.)

The scoreboard read 4-0, and the Cavaliers found themselves in early trouble. This start felt even rockier than their game against the Warriors.

The New Orleans crowd, feeding off the momentum, erupted into synchronized chants of "Defense! Defense!"

Han and Jokic ran another pick-and-roll, but this time Jokic popped out to the perimeter while Han drove inside.

Holiday, displaying his elite defensive instincts, immediately collapsed into the paint. Meanwhile, Davis once again showcased his incredible mobility, recovering from contesting Han's mid-range option to also threaten Jokic's perimeter shot.

This level of defensive confidence is a testament to Davis' unique skill set. Even if Han managed a perfect pass to Jokic, Davis would still have time to contest or disrupt the shot.

However, Han didn't pass—or even consider the mid-range jumper. Instead, he drove hard into the paint, leaning into Holiday's defense. Seeing no help rotation from the weak side, Han planted his shoulder into Holiday, creating just enough space to unleash a Magic Johnson-style hook shot.

Why not a floater? Holiday's quick hands posed too much of a risk for the ball to be swatted away.

Swish!

Han's hook shot found the bottom of the net, silencing the defensive chants momentarily. The crowd erupted into murmurs—when did Han add a hook shot to his arsenal?

On his way back on defense, Han clapped his hands, rallying his teammates.

The Cavaliers might be in a tough spot, but one thing was certain: solutions always outnumber problems.

(End of Chapter)