I’ve learned over time, that the hype machines created by the media have never tended to last long. The initial hype behind Ryan Leaf, Daisuke Matsuzaka, JaMarcus Russell, etc. can make a lot of fans and critics alike become skeptical of the next media monster a-la Tim Tebow. The critical success and failure alike from the fans and media about Tim Tebow have resulted in new NBA star Jeremy Lim sometimes having a hard time adjusting to his new found fame.
With Carmelo Anthony making his transition back into the starting lineup on February 20th, Jeremy Lin’s “Linsanity” was at an all-time high, with sports commentators praising Jeremy Lin’s unbelievable breakthrough in terms of scoring ability and his leadership capability, spearheading seven consecutive wins for the Knicks including five in Anthony’s absence. But, once Carmelo Anthony and Amar’e Stoudemire became both 100% healthy, the three had to share the court together, which appeared to be a struggle, Knicks ended up losing seven of eight and six straight.
During those losing skids Jeremy Lin had more than five turnovers per in three of those games, and struggled against elite teams such as the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, and the Chicago Bulls. It prompted me, amongst others to really wonder; Can Jeremy Lin really take the Knicks to the playoffs, and while at that, do well?
Hope for that accomplishment is high, with the resignation of Mike D’Antoni, and the three game winning streak the Knicks currently hold as of March 18th. To kick off the post-D’Antoni era, Jeremy Lin & the Knicks began with a win in an impressive 42 point victory against the struggling Portland Trailblazers. Jeremy Lin, although not too staggering, played very important roles in all three wins. In my opinion, Jeremy Lin is best suited for a role similar to the role Tony Parker played during the Spurs championship runs from 2003-2007. Parker scored when they needed him too. Took high percentage shots, assisted his team on shots, and play great defense. Basically, Lin has to play the role of a true point guard. Jeremy Lin is no Russell Westbrook, but he can be a Deron Williams, or even better, a Tony Parker.
It is almost April and the playoff push this year will be an exciting one, Orlando, Philadelphia, Chicago, Miami, etc. will all be making their final adjustments for their quest for the ring. Jeremy Lin must continue to prove he can co-exist with his fellow star teammates, and help the New York Knicks make that final push to become at least a six or seven seed. Linsanity appears to be over according to Ron Artest. Then again who listens to Ron Artest anymore? It’s a playoff series win that will show he’s here to stay.
