Chapter 8 The Final Puzzle_3

Phil Johnson was as willing as ever to lower his guard and offer his support to Sloan.

Under West's persuasion, Beelman indicated that as long as Adelman was willing, he could restart their collaboration.

West immediately called Adelman to ask if he was interested in returning to coach in Portland.

Adelman hesitated on the telephone; he knew Beelman had a solid position with the Trail Blazers.

He still hoped to secure a head coaching position to prove himself.

However, the temptation to return to Portland was indeed great; his family was still there, and it was his home.

Later, West brought Buckwalter and Glickman together to help persuade Adelman.

Eventually, Beelman called Adelman, saying, "Portland needs you. We have a lot of new players joining; they are very talented and need your guidance and leadership. Rick, we make a good team, don't we?"