In a 104-95 Hornets win over the Timberwolves, Jeremy Lin scored points the way he usually does, by penetrating and getting into the paint. In attack mode, Lin forces NBA defenses to make tough decisions because he’s adept at dishing and finishing — and because he has the size and strength to do both from close range. The results of those tough defensive decisions often send Lin to the line. Against the Timberwolves, Lin went to the line eight times (6-for-8), while dishing three assists and committing zero turnovers in nearly 26 minutes. He shot better than 50% from the floor, going 6-for-11.
[Jeremy Lin’s Hair Is So ‘FLETCH’]
Those 26 minutes are a critical factor. Lin’s opportunities and success rate soared because he simply got more playing time. Disappointing fans who hoped to see Lin getting more minutes in Charlotte, Lin had been averaging less than 22 minutes a game for the Hornets. That’s significantly less time that he got under Byron Scott in Los Angeles, where a lack of sufficient playing time was a critical element in Lin’s exit. Lin led all Hornets in scoring with 19 points. Jeremy Lamb added 18 points on 8-for-10 shooting.
