Laker fans finally got to watch the Jeremy Lin that is expected to play as a Laker. The first two games were riddled with inconsistency and indecision. Jeremy played a game that was more loose, with more speed, and at times, at the edge of control
He hasn’t been the most patient point guard on the floor. Some of his passes are higher risk, and seem to be made out of a desperate situation than a deliberate one. He faces hard-hedges from pick-and-roll situations. At times, a third defender will hint at blocking his drive lane. Other times, a point guard defender will block his lane, defending it wide. Last night, he had four turnovers as a result.
When he is able to turn the corner, he can get into the paint. He must realize that he can lead the Laker guards in points in the paint.
The Lakers need this level of aggression all year from Jeremy Lin.
Byron Scott on Jeremy Lin: "He looked to take charge on the offense at times when he could push the ball."
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) November 1, 2014
Jeremy Lin: "I wanted to come out & attack and I think it's just a matter of trying to do this more consistently."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) November 1, 2014
He finished last nights game with 17 points and 9 assists; 8 points in the paint and 3 of 6 behind the arc.
Most impressively, he put up tough shots in the paint over DeAndre Jordan. Late in the fourth quarter, there was a questionable non-call. Lin attacked the basket, made contact, and threw up a bad shot. DeAndre Jordan had five fouls at the time.
That was a heart-breaking missed call. That would have fouled out DeAndre Jordan and opened up the painted area for the Lakers with a few minutes left to play in the fourth quarter. Lin showed great hoop IQ there.
Lin looked comfortable on the basketball floor. He would look even more comfortable playing in a Phoenix Suns-style system. This Laker team needs some of that Suns offensive system implemented as part of the identity. It’s too easy for the Lakers to slow down the basketball, throw it into the post, and have someone work in isolation.
Jeremy gets the Lakers easy points, especially in transition. High percentage shots are found early in the shotclock. His playmaking and patience keep the offensive flow for the Lakers steady throughout the game.
It’s nice to see him comfortable on the floor. He won’t need to relieve “Linsanity,” but he can accomplish his goal of being a legit NBA starter.