Chapter 108: Return to the Team 1

CJ sat nervously in the team doctor's office, his hands gripping the edges of the chair. After three grueling months of rehabilitation, he was finally on the brink of returning. The doctor adjusted his glasses, glanced at CJ, and said, "Your body..."

The pause stretched on forever, each second weighing heavier than the last. CJ's heart pounded in his chest, his breath caught.

"Your body has fully recovered. You can rejoin the team anytime."

CJ exhaled deeply, relief washing over him. He knew he was ready—he had passed every test and had been itching to get back on the court. Yet, part of him couldn't shake the suspicion that the delay had been orchestrated by Jake, holding him back for reasons beyond recovery.

"Can I play in the game?" CJ asked, barely able to contain his excitement. God knew how long he'd been waiting for this moment. Watching his teammates battle it out on the court while he could do nothing but cheer had been excruciating.

"It's a yes," the doctor confirmed with a smile, "but remember, don't push yourself too hard. Ease into it—your body needs time to adapt."

"I understand!" CJ said, practically bouncing out of his seat. If he weren't in the doctor's office, he might have shouted his joy to the entire building.

As CJ left, practically skipping down the hall, the doctor's smile faded. Picking up his phone, he made a call.

"Hey, Jake. I signed off on his report. He's clear to play in the next couple of days." Glancing to ensure CJ was out of earshot, the doctor lowered his voice. "But honestly, he could've been back two weeks ago. Why the delay?"

Jake's voice on the other end was calm, almost amused. "The team's been finding its rhythm. Bringing CJ back too soon would've disrupted the chemistry. He's my investment—I have to protect him."

The doctor nodded silently, though he knew this level of caution was unusual in the league. Most teams would milk a player for all they were worth, injury or not. But Jake wasn't most team owners.

CJ, oblivious to the behind-the-scenes maneuvering, charged into Coach Malone's office with the signed health report. "Coach! I'm good to go! When can I play?"

Malone skimmed the report, flipping straight to the conclusion. "You're cleared," he said with a nod. "That's great news. Everyone's been waiting for you." Then his tone shifted. "But listen, the team's on a roll right now. You'll need time to adjust to the new tactics. I spoke with Jake—let's have you come off the bench for now and ease you in."

CJ froze for a moment, but the mention of Jake's name calmed him. Jake had always looked out for him. "No problem, Coach," he said with a grin. "I'll work with Oden and Casspi. We'll hold down the second unit."

Malone relaxed, relieved by CJ's willingness to adapt. "Good. We've got a game tomorrow. Rest up tonight—you'll play."

The next day, the Kings hosted the Thunder, a team with championship aspirations led by the lethal duo of Durant and Westbrook. As the game tipped off, ESPN's commentator hyped up the matchup.

"CJ is finally back after 100 days! But curiously, he's not in the starting lineup. It could be due to tactical adjustments or a restriction on his minutes. Either way, we're in for a battle tonight!"

The Thunder opened aggressively, with Westbrook barreling down the court, drawing defenders, and dishing to Durant for a smooth jumper. It was a classic Thunder play—simple yet devastating. Durant's height, speed, and silky touch made him nearly impossible to stop.

As the Thunder's offense gained momentum, Coach Malone called for a shift.

"Forget the 3-2 zone!" he yelled as Durant prepared to take free throws. "Switch to man-to-man! Butler, you're on Westbrook. Young and Gay, rotate on Durant—wear him down!"

Butler nodded, his eyes gleaming with a predator's hunger. He glanced at Westbrook, licking his lips with a smirk. This was going to be fun.

The Kings had their work cut out for them, but with CJ back, even as a sixth man, they had a spark of hope. The crowd buzzed with anticipation as the game unfolded, knowing that CJ's presence could tilt the scales when it mattered most.