Chapter 282: Han’s Basketball Philosophy.
Thanks to Coach Michael Malone's halftime adjustments, the Cavaliers surged in the third quarter, outscoring the Bulls by 30-20 in that period.
Although the Bulls, led by Jimmy Butler, showed resilience by cutting into the deficit early in the fourth quarter, the hole they dug in the first half was too deep. Once the starters returned, Han Sen's scoring outburst sealed the victory for the Cavaliers.
As it turns out—just like with Michael Jordan in the past—even the best defense could only limit Han Sen, never fully stop him.
The truth was simple: give Han Sen any bit of rest, and he would carry the team to victory.
Han Sen finished with 46 points, 6 rebounds, and 11 assists. Kyrie Irving, making his playoff debut, shot 5-for-16, ending with 14 points and 5 assists. JR Smith added 13 points, Kevin Garnett had 9 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists, and Tristan Thompson contributed 8 points and 8 rebounds.
For the Bulls, Jimmy Butler led the team with 18 points, while Derrick Rose chipped in 14 points and 10 assists, Taj Gibson had 11 points and 4 rebounds, and Joakim Noah finished with 8 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 assists.
...
Post-Game Press Conference
Han Sen and Kyrie Irving sat side by side, answering questions from reporters.
"Mike is one of the most underrated coaches in the league," Han Sen said, referring to Malone. "I worked with him five years ago when I was here, and I've always known what he's capable of. His adjustments changed the entire game."
At halftime, Han was prepared to go all-out if needed. But Malone's tactical changes allowed the team to take control of the game without him needing to do so.