224: Getting Roger to Comply and Behave (Seeking monthly tickets!)_2

The prolonged lockout left most players rusty.

Fortunately, Roger always had the habit of staying in shape.

Big Ben and Andrae Patterson also kept their good form, joining Roger for training from time to time during the extended offseason.

Big Ben was hoping to maintain his condition, while Patterson aimed to get used to the pace of the NBA as quickly as possible.

Eventually, Roger saw the rookie that all of Atlanta was eagerly anticipating.

When Paul Pierce arrived, his expression was as excited as a little boy going fruit-picking for the first time.

Because of Stevie Smith's departure, Paul Pierce, who was already in the spotlight, received even more attention. Everyone expected Pierce to replace Stevie Smith and become Roger's Divine Hand.

Do you think this would crush Pierce? No, Pierce didn't mind such pressure; he was a player who enjoyed competition and challenges.

The departure of Stevie Smith conveniently resolved the issue that had been concerning Pierce the most.