Brooklyn Nets: 5 goals for Jeremy Lin in 2017-18

1. See the writing on the wall

It seems unfair for some of the incredible games Lin has had over just a seven-year career to find himself in the position he is currently in. He has started just over half of his career games, 216 of 405 from 2010-11 to 2016-17. At this point he has not started at least half of the games for an entire season besides one, going back to 2012-13 with the Houston Rockets where he started all 82.

While the Nets surely gave Lin the opportunity last season to take control of the offense, it was blown due to injury. Whether it seems to be an insurance investment or future consideration with the signing of Russell, Lin must realize now more than ever his time is now.

Playing in the final year of his contract, he is heading into a free agency that will be riddled with plenty of star power. Therefore, must take advantage of every minute. He has showcased his ability to score with creativity and we have all seen it, but now his potential and intangibles must be pushed to the absolute limit.

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If he can emerge as the leader of the Nets’ core, even if they don’t make his prediction of landing a spot in the postseason, he can prove his worth by improving the Nets to at least 30 wins this season. If he can improve the Nets, he should draw the attention of other possible playoff contenders next offseason through free agency for a big pay day and hopefully, a long-term home.