Jeremy Lin helped propel Charlotte Hornets against Brooklyn Nets with their 104-96 victory on Sunday. The Hornets are currently enjoying a 5-game winning streak, with 29-26 win-loss card, putting them in the seventh spot in the Eastern Conference. The Chicago Bulls share the same spot.
Coming off bench, Lin played for a total of 31 minutes, making 11 points (3-10 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 5-6 FT), five rebounds, two assists, one block and one steal. Many may find that Lin's contribution is small in terms of points, but he is consistent in producing these numbers. His versatile skills in offense, guard play and game execution put him to better use in the Hornets' changed offensive approach. His court presence put the defenses of the opposing team right on the edge.
The Hornets's current play system brings out the best from Lin, putting up his strong points right at the front of each game. His last team used a different approach, more isolation game and with overwhelming talents.
The 27-year-old point guard's performance off the bench also lands him a good spot for a possible NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award. CBS Sports reported that Lin's ability to run the second squad perfectly suits the Hornets rather being on the starter bench. The other contenders for the award are Victor Oladipo of Orlando Magic, Ryan Anderson of New Orleans Pelicans, Will Barton of Denver Nuggets, and Enes Kanter of Oklahoma City Thunder.
However, a recent trade between the Hornets' P.J. Hairston and Memphis Grizzlies' Courtney Lee may reduce Lin's playing time. Shooting guard/small forward Lee is a veteran in the playoffs and will greatly benefit the Hornets. Charlotte's current small forward, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, is currently recuperating and will be out for the whole season because of a re-injury last January.
On a side note, Lin is quite vocal about his Christian views. When he sprained his ankle back in December, he asked his digital prayer group to pray for his health. Christian Post published his prayer request, "Please pray for health for me and my team. My ankle looked like there was a tennis ball in it for awhile, as well as some other nagging injuries that me and my teammates have been dealing with."
