Roger sat back on the bench, with 2 minutes and 43 seconds remaining in the game.
He knew exactly what he needed to do next—continue using both hands to break through the Pistons' iron wall.
This was Roger's last rest before taking over the game, so he didn't say much, just focused on regulating his breathing.
Lenny Wilkens substituted Pippen for Jeff Hornacek, achieving an assist, a basket, and drawing a foul; the lethal 3-point shooter had completed his task. At least during Roger's breathing pause, his presence ensured the Hawks didn't fall behind.
In fact, Jeff Hornacek absolutely overachieved in his tasks.
But that's about as much as he could do; for these kinds of games, ultimately, it's the star players who solve the problems.
Roger watched the Dream, who was too tired to leap anymore, observed Hornacek shining brightly after 331 days of doing his best, and surveyed everyone itching to pummel the Pistons. Atlanta's Savior took a deep breath.
