Pope of Basketball.

Summary

The chapter discusses the challenges the Lakers face in strengthening their coaching staff following the departures of Yang Rui and two assistants. Jim Buss controversially hires Byron Scott, despite uncertainty about Scott's tactical strengths. Online discussions arise around Yao Ming and Kobe Bryant's potential leadership roles, with Yao considering a sign-and-trade to avoid being Kobe's teammate, as many star players have historically shied away from playing alongside Kobe. Yang Rui suggests Yao join the Nets, predicting a rebuild under new ownership, while he declines Yao's offer to coach the team. The narrative also highlights Yao's physical limitations as he ages and the evolving role of centers in the NBA. Yang Rui’s insights attract interest from various players and agents, while he remains focused on his future coaching plans, aiming to attract stars to his next team.

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