With the recent resurgence of Jeremy Lin as a game changer (32.5 ppg in his two games and 18.1 on the season), the third year NBA guard looks to rekindle the magic that was on display in 2012. Is this just simply two games linked together? Can Lin become not just a serviceable point guard- but a star one? To answer those questions, one must delve back into when it all began.
On December 27th, 2011 Jeremy Lin was signed by the New York Knicks after bouncing around the league with stops at Golden State and Houston (both of whom had to make room for other signings, but would later regret their decision to cut the future phenom). It wasn't until January 20th, 2012 that Lin became more than just a face in the crowd. That day, Lin had a triple double for the Erie Bayhawks in a 122-118 win. He was called up a few days later by the struggling Knickerbockers in an effort to energize the line up.
He first garnered attention by lighting up the Nets. Soon after he would have to go up against the Kobe Bryant-led Lakers, a surefire test of his abilities indeed. Lin would score a career-high 38 points against them and "Linsanity" grew from there. It was the new "Tebowmania". In the span of 35 games, he started 25 to help carry the Knicks into the playoffs, a run that would ultimately see him play limited time due to a knee injury At the time, Lin was questioned about his toughness by some and if he was just in it for the money.
But Lin's run was thought to be a fluke and a small sample-size. He couldn't keep up the pace for a full 82-game schedule, right? Obviously it would be hard for any player heading into their second year under the national spotlight to keep that pace of scoring going. He would sign a poison pill contract with the Houston Rockets, ending Linsanity in NYC.
There are two periods of time in Houston Rockets basketball: BH and AH- Before Harden and After Harden. It was BH, and Lin was signed along with former Bull Omer Asik in the summer of 2012. They were expected to be a lottery team and noting more. Then right before the season began, the Rockets miraculously traded for former Thunder guard and sixth man of the year James Harden. Lin didn't have to be "the man", but his style was similar to Harden's. Each had their shining moments, but the team belonged to James. Once again, Lin's season would end with an injury that limited his playing time as he collided with Kevin Durant in their first round series against who else? The Thunder. OKC would win 4-2.
The knock on Lin was that he was turnover prone and not a starting point guard in the NBA. Maybe he was valuable off the bench as an energy guy but nothing more, some thought. Even so, he finished the season playing in all 82 games with averages of 13.4 and 6.2- respectable, but nothing groundbreaking.
Heading into 2013, Lin was thought to be pushed further down the Rockets' totem pole when the emergence of backup Patrick Beverley threatened Lin's starting status. The defensive dynamo was quick and feisty, and more capable than the offensive-minded Lin. Also added to the mix was Dwight Howard, who would only take more touches away from Lin and make him more of an afterthought. While they are continuing to find their chemistry on the court, Houston has struggled to keep leads and find a rhythm so far in 2013. Injuries to Harden and Chandler Parsons have already affected the team, but they march on- and as of late, to the beat of Lin's drum.
His 31 point outburst Monday against the Raptors brought everyone back to the times of Linsanity. But Wednesday in a 123-117 loss to the 76ers, Lin brought the magic again with 34 points and nine- yes nine- three pointers. It only helped his case as a starting guard in the league, and kept the Rockets in the game (which saw Harden sit due to his bruised feet). While they came up short, Lin has put himself on the NBA radar in 2013 and looks to establish himself as a factor in the Rockets' rotation.
It is impossible that he can be the man on a team that features a trio of Harden, Howard and Parsons, this week he has proved he can carry a team in crunch time. His innate ability to mix it up inside and draw contact while still making shots and getting to the line makes him a threat on any possession. When he's not inside, he can drain them from deep (a scorching 51% from three point land in 2013). He can push the break for Houston, one which has struggled mightily with Howard and Asik on the court together. But when they are on, Lin is a playmaker with an eye for the assist.
Tonight Lin returns to where it all began: MSG. Houston looks to bounce back from a loss, while the Knicks try to win without Tyson Chandler. Can Lin bring back a little New York Nostalgia in the form of "Linsanity"? Carmelo and company hope not, as they are trying to find their footing in a muddled Eastern Conference.
It's early in the season and this hubbub could all be for nothing, but the chance of catching lighting in a bottle twice is always intriguing- especially under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden.
Like it? Love it? Hate it? Contact me on Twitter @SeanNeutron.
No comments:
Post a Comment