Chapter 370: Kuzma Unleashed.
The Pelicans' offense started with LeBron James and Anthony Davis running the pick-and-roll again.
This time, Tristan Thompson sagged into the paint early, preventing Davis from rolling effectively. However, LeBron switched gears, abandoning the pick-and-roll and driving past Robert Covington straight to the rim, drawing a foul on Nikola Jokic.
The whistle seemed soft, but that wasn't the biggest concern. Covington, long hailed as the "LeBron Stopper", failed to keep up with LeBron's speed.
'New supplements again?' Han Sen thought to himself. Watching LeBron's sharp movements and recalling his recent self-proclaimed dominance and off-season headlines, Han's suspicions deepened.
As LeBron stepped to the free-throw line and calmly sank both shots, putting the Pelicans up 6-2, Han called over to Covington for a quick adjustment.
On the next possession, Han orchestrated a pick-and-roll with Jokic again. This time, New Orleans sent a double team at Han, but he countered with a no-look, behind-the-back pass to Jokic.
Jokic pump-faked Davis into the air and then began a deliberate drive to the basket, using his bulk to shield Davis off. Jokic's control of the ball was masterful, keeping it protected while slowly backing into the paint.
Attracting multiple defenders as he approached the rim, Jokic lobbed the ball skyward. Han, who had already sealed Jrue Holiday behind him, exploded upward, snatching the ball mid-air and slamming it home with authority.
The crowd roared in amazement. The replay showed Han's head nearly level with the rim—a stunning display reminiscent of his iconic dunk contest performance two years ago.
Han and Jokic exchanged high-fives on the way back. Despite being only in their third season together, their chemistry was undeniable. Jokic's leap in ability this season only made their partnership more lethal.
Back on defense, the Cavaliers adjusted their coverage. Han switched onto LeBron, shadowing him closely.