Jeremy Lin is defended by Archie Goodwin of the Phoenix Suns. (Photo : Getty Images/Streeter Lecka )
The Charlotte Hornets are currently on the winning side as they are 8-2 in their last 10 games, thanks to point guard Jeremy Lin.
As of this writing, the Michael Jordan-owned team (41-30) have the chance to take home the Southeast Division crown as they are tied for the fifth spot with its division rival Miami Heat. Also, they are only half-game behind the Atlanta Hawks and the Boston Celtics for the third spot, which will secure home court advantage in the playoffs should they end up on that spot.
With team leader and point guard Kemba Walker averaging 21 points, 5.2 assists and 1.6 steals, the Hornets are in a favorable position to enter the postseason, but even the Connecticut product knows that they won't get this far without Lin.
"He's been phenomenal," Walker told Washington Post. With Walker taking over starter duties, Lin has been productive as a back-up as he is currently averaging 11.8 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists while playing 26 minutes per game.
Head coach Steve Clifford also said Lin is a very effective catalyst due to his ability to penetrate the paint which they badly need as the team has a tendency to rely on outside shots. Forward Nicolas Batum also praised his teammate and said Lin was such a huge part of their past five victories.
Media outlets are quick to brand Lin's resurgence as Linsanity 2.0. Lin shared his thoughts on the subject matter and he said that he is simply more comfortable with his team and there are less expectations compared to his previous campaigns.
"I think being comfortable and not thinking as much on the court and letting the ball fly and having fun," Lin said in an interview via Sports Page Network when asked what's different in Charlotte compared to his stint with his former teams. "Shots are going in and I think that helps me, helps open up my drive."
In his stellar play against the San Antonio Spurs, Lin posted 29 points, while shooting 11-18 from the field and hitting all four of his three-point attempts with some coming in the crucial moments of the game. Here are some highlights:
