Unless some jerk really went over the line during the game, he wouldn't let Bowen actively hurt the opponent.
Yes, all is fair in pursuit of victory.
But ending someone's career for a win is crossing the line.
Everyone has a different perception of honor. If Bowen were under another coach, he certainly would have become a killing machine.
But in Wilkens's hands, he wanted Bowen to be a protector, not an attacker.
Protection and attack are two completely different concepts.
In the NBA, every star player needs an enforcer by their side, someone fearsome—it's normal.
If you mess with Roger, okay, I'll send Bowen for retaliation.
But if you're just playing fair and square, would I ruin your star player just because we can't beat you?
Anyway, Lenny Wilkens wasn't that kind of person. He was tough, but he wouldn't allow himself to do that.
Would there be any sense of honor in a championship won that way?
