Actually, whether it was Westbrook or James, they could all tell that Hansen was trying to sow discord.
But just like Hansen's strategy against Paul last season, recognizing it and it being effective are two different things.
James couldn't back down because doing so would admit that it was Westbrook's team.
Westbrook was in the same boat; management already favored James, and if he didn't fight for it himself, he would end up being traded just the same.
Both of them were in a difficult position.
Seeing that something was off, Brooks hurriedly called a timeout.
The new season had only just begun two minutes ago, and if a dispute within the team erupted now, he, as the head coach, might as well pack up and leave immediately.
The home fans of the Grizzlies were also keen on stirring things up, starting to heckle raucously.
As Stan had analyzed, the Thunders were strong, but their level of play would still depend on how well the two ball-dominant superstars could mesh.
