Sean Marks is the new man trying to retool the Brooklyn Nets and so far the Jeremy Lin deal has garnered praise. In fact it has been the sole bright spot so far though his coming is not expected to make the Nets overnight title contenders.
The Nets had $55 million of salary cap space to spend and part of that went to Lin. He will reportedly be paid $36 million for the next three years with the final season being a player option for the former Harvard University graduate according to CBS.
Aside from the fact that Lin was able to return home, it will be another test to see if he can flourish as a starter. Lin rose to new heights following that breakout year with the New York Knicks. But things didn’t turn out smoothly for Lin following stops to Houston (Rockets) and Los Angeles (Lakers).
With his stock dwindling, Lin hooked up with the Charlotte Hornets as a sixth man and regained his old form. His 2015-16 performance captures the fancy of other teams. Ultimately the Nets beat everyone to the gun.
Lin is speculated by ESPN to replace Jarrett Jack who the team released following an ACL injury. If so, Lin will once again become a starter which will hopefully better this time around.
Seeing his brand of ball, Lin is expected to create situations which should benefit the likes of Brook Lopez. With first year head coach Kenny Atkinson familiar on how to use Lin, that should be something interesting to look forward to.
Lin may not be at that superstar level that draws in crowds but he does have a following. The Nets are likely to see an increase in attendance at the Barclay’s Center with many aware of the savvy Lin brings to the court.
Aside from Lin, the Nets are after a couple of restricted free agents. These are Tyler Johnson of the Miami Heat and Alan Crabbe of the Portland Trail Blazers according to another report from CBS. If their home teams don’t sign them, both will be key additions to Marks this coming NBA season.
How familiar is Atkinson with Jeremy Lin? Check out the video below of the two working together during their New York Knicks days.