Chapter 77: Emergency Substitute

The crowd buzzed with worry, while Wade stood at the sidelines, hands on his head, clearly troubled. The collision had been fair, but CJ lost his balance on the landing, causing him to fall awkwardly. Everyone focused on CJ, and, fortunately, no arguments broke out on the court.

Coach Malone rushed over, looking anxiously at the team doctor. "What's the situation?"

After a quick examination, the team doctor responded, "He's definitely out for the rest of today's game, Coach. We'll need further testing at the hospital to get a clear picture. It doesn't seem like a bone issue, but I'm worried there may be ligament damage in his knee."

CJ was soon wheeled off the court, his face a mixture of pain and disappointment. Malone scratched his head in frustration. Losing CJ could seriously impact the team's momentum, but at least it was early in the season. There'd be time to adapt, even if CJ needed an extended recovery. Malone scanned the bench, searching for someone to take over.

"Devin, you're up!" he called out, signaling Booker to get ready.

"Me?" Booker replied, momentarily stunned. But there wasn't time to dwell on the surprise. Veteran Rudy Gay, who had been watching from the sidelines, gave Booker an encouraging nudge. "Let's do this, guys," Gay said firmly. "Stick with me, and we'll make it through this game."

The Kings were shaken, but Gay's leadership was essential in lifting their spirits. He and Malone exchanged a look of understanding as Gay adjusted his jersey, ready to step up for his teammates. The game resumed with Booker bringing the ball up the court, and soon after, Gay called for it at the free-throw line. Trusting his teammate's instincts, Booker sent a high lob inside.

Receiving the pass, Gay felt the weight of Luol Deng's defense behind him. He quickly turned, creating just enough space, then leaned back and took a smooth jump shot. Deng, startled by Gay's sudden intensity, couldn't help but mutter to himself, "Since when did Gay start playing like this?"

Deng wasn't the only one surprised; the Kings bench was buzzing with astonishment too. "Is Rudy always this fierce?" Booker whispered in disbelief.

"Of course he is," LaVine chimed in with pride. "Our big guy's been holding back! He's only lazy when he doesn't have to be."

Gay's performance was a masterclass in leadership. He carried the team on his shoulders, hitting shot after shot and helping to stabilize the Kings' morale. Finally, Jake and Malone breathed a sigh of relief on the sidelines.

"Keeping Gay during the offseason was a smart move," Jake remarked, nodding in approval. "Every team needs a leader who can step up in critical moments."

"True," Malone replied, his tone somber. "But Gay's leadership can only stretch so far. If CJ is out for a while, our point guard role falls to Booker, who's still finding his footing."

"I know," Jake agreed. "Let's wait on the medical report. If CJ's out for the long term, we'll have to get creative."

With CJ out, the game continued under Malone's guidance, but without their main playmaker, the Kings leaned heavily on Gay. Meanwhile, Gay's intense solo performance was drawing more Heat defenders his way. Sensing this, Gay deftly passed to Booker in the corner, giving him an open look for a jump shot. Malone, watching carefully, murmured, "Booker's more of a finisher. He'll struggle to keep the offense flowing like CJ."

Jake nodded, knowing they needed a true playmaker. CJ and Booker both offered unique strengths, but CJ's court vision was unparalleled. "We need someone who can control the game," Jake concluded.

After a gritty battle, the game ended with the Kings losing 100-114. Gay finished with an impressive 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists, while Booker, stepping into a big role, managed a solid 20 points, setting a personal rookie record.

In the post-game meeting room at the Miami hospital, Jake and Coach Malone sat, faces heavy with concern as they awaited the team doctor's report. Finally, the doctor entered, holding CJ's scan results. "There's no bone damage, thankfully," he began. "But based on CJ's symptoms and our initial analysis, it's likely a ligament issue in the left knee. If it's a mild strain, he could be back in a few weeks. But if it's severe, we may be looking at a season-ending injury."

The weight of the words hung heavily in the room. Jake nodded, steadying himself. "Understood. Please stay on top of this and keep us updated on any developments," he instructed the doctor before heading to CJ's room.

CJ looked up from the hospital bed as Jake entered, his face weary. Forcing a small smile, he said, "Sorry, boss. I tried, but I couldn't hold it together out there."

Jake waved a hand dismissively. "This isn't your fault, CJ. Injuries are part of the game. Your job now is to heal up. We'll wait for you to come back."

After a few words of encouragement, Jake left CJ's room and bumped into Coach Malone in the hallway. They exchanged a knowing look, each retreating into his own thoughts as they walked away. Jake made his way to a quiet stairwell and pulled out his phone, dialing quickly. The call was answered almost immediately.

"Boss, what can I do for you?" Divac's familiar accent crackled through the receiver.

"We need a backup point guard, and we need one fast," Jake said firmly. "Start looking for potential trades tonight."

With the urgency of the situation, Jake knew that finding a reliable backup was now a top priority. If CJ's season was in jeopardy, the Kings couldn't afford to wait.