Jeremy Lin is expected to opt out from the second year of his deal to become an unrestricted free-agent this summer, Hoops Rumors reported on Tuesday.
Following a strong showing with the Charlotte Hornets last season, the former Harvard standout will test the free-agency water for the second year in row, hoping to land longer and more valuable contract this time around.
Coming off a nightmarish stint with the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2014-15 season, the 27-year old Lin inked a two-year deal with the Hornets, a contract many thought worth below his market value.
But it was the sacrifice Lin had to make for him to reinvigorate his NBA career. He picked the Hornets in the first place because it presented an opportunity for him to play significant minutes, without dealing enormous media attention.
Lin's sacrifice paid off as he enters this summer among the hottest free-agents outside the All-Star circle. He averaged at least 11 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists this season - which are below his career averages. However, he had provided a huge lift for the Hornets with his floor leadership and improved perimeter defense last season.
Potential Suitors:
Yahoo Sports ranked Lin as the no.4 best available free-agent point guard this summer just behind Deron Williams, Rajon Rondo and Mike Conley. Former teams New York Knicks, Houston Rockets and even the Lakers have been mention as possible suitors for the reinvigorated Lin, but teams like the Brooklyn Nets and the Milwaukee Bucks could also be in the run for his service because of their up-tempo offensive system.
Lin's association with head coach Kenny Atkinson put the Nets in great position of acquiring his service, while there's a possibility Jason Kidd could make a push for Lin, whom he has been looking to get under his mentorship since he broke into the spotlight with the Knicks four years ago.