The
Knicks have just made official what many already thought: they are not going to
match the Rockets offer to restricted free agent Jeremy Lin. This move actually
makes sense for both sides. However, if you look at this move economically, it
will hurt the Knicks. Lin was easily one of the most popular players in the
league, and this will undoubtedly hurt the Knicks in terms of attendance and
season-ticket holders. But, if you look at this from an actual basketball
standpoint, the move makes sense. It makes sense because Mike Woodson is the
new coach and Carmelo Anthony remains on the team. Lin is best described as a
"system point guard." This means his style of play works well in a
certain system, but not necessarily well in others. He fit perfectly in Mike
D'Antoni's run-and-gun system. Mike Woodson focuses more on a slower tempo and
defense, neither of which are strengths for Lin. Raymond Felton, who the Knicks
acquired from the Blazers, seems to be a better fit for Woodson. Also, Lin
played his best when Carmelo Anthony was out due to injury. Once Melo came
back, there was an increase in Lin's turnovers and decrease in assists. This is
most likely because Melo needs to have the ball to have success, because he is
an atrocious defender and is not a team player. I think he actually hurts the
Knicks, but that's for another blog.
Bottom line, Lin not a good fit for Mike Woodson. On the other hand, the
Rockets get the point guard they need, having lost Goran Dragic to the Suns.
They also get a sure-fire attendance booster, which they sorely need.
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