"We're currently assessing the impact of Zach Randolph's absence. But those who are gloating had better shut their mouths, starting now."
Isaiah Thomas stepped forward to address the firestorm of public opinion, saying, "We'll be keeping a close eye on anyone who underestimates us right now."
Thomas's words carried weight.
Of course, the threat behind those words didn't come from Thomas, but from the actual damage Su Xi and the Knicks had been inflicting for a very long time.
Su Xi was a dominant player, and he had proven time and time again that anyone who dared to challenge him would be put in their place.
Ever since he entered the NBA, no one who talked trash to his face had ever come out on top.
And just like that, the chatter died down considerably.
Everyone knew full well that provoking Su Xi was a dangerous game.
The Knicks pushed on.
