Jeremy Lin had to forego not only the opportunity of starting elsewhere to sign with the Charlotte Hornets this offseason. He apparently sacrificed tons of money on the table as well with Sports Illustrated writer Ben Leibowitz considering the former Harvard standout one of the best bargains this free-agency period.
According to Leibowitz, Lin valued at 4.3 million over two years looks to be a win-win move for the Hornets, who will benefit a lot from the guard's scoring and playmaking abilities next season.
Lin is coming off his lowest statistical year since his rookie season, averaging 11.2 points and 4.6 assists in 23 minuites per game. However, advanced metrics indicated a significant jump in efficiency per 36 minutes for Lin despite a tumultuous campaign with the Los Angeles Lakers.
"Lin's averages with the Lakers a season ago may not look great, but he actually averaged more points, assists, rebounds and steals per 36 minutes compared to the 2013-14 season he spent with the Rockets."
Leibowitz stressed Lin's numbers are often overlooked because of the immense hype created by his short-lived but phenomenal stint with the New York Knicks three years ago. He added that Lin deserved a much better contract that he just signed, given the expected raise in salaries starting next season.
"Given that Cory Joseph netted a four-year, $30 million deal from the Raptors this summer, Lin's contract is far below his market value. Perhaps this will make up for the botched Lance Stephenson signing from a year ago."
Fortunately for him, Lin has an option on the second year of his deal, allowing him to reap the fruit of salary cap explosion next summer with better numbers next season, especially if he plays a pivotal role in the Hornets postseason campaign.
At first glance, it’s big gamble on Lin’s part to make such a significant financial sacrifice. However, if Hornets’ shift to a more free-flowing offense would serve as an indication, it’s much of a stretch to see Lin re-igniting his career in Charlotte and cashing in on his big season next summer.