Jeremy Lin News: ‘Linsanity’ A Thing of the Past, Lin Ready to Make an Impact with Charlotte Hornets [Video]
Jeremy Lin was officially as introduced as the newest member of the Charlotte Hornets on Monday, and the 26-year-old point guard could not hide his excitement.
Lin, who played for the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers over the past three seasons, said that he is not looking to have another "Linsanity" moment in Buzz City similar to what happened when he had string of impressive performances in 2012 with the New York Knicks.
Lin said in the introductory news conference that "Linsanity" is now a thing of the past because he feels he has improved and learned a lot over the past three seasons despite being criticized for his inconsistencies during his stint with the Rockets and the Lakers.
"I do believe I am a more refined player, a more all-around player," Lin said as reported by ESPN. "I do think the work I have put in has made me better. I just don't think I have had the same fit or opportunity."
The former Harvard University standout, who signed a two-year deal worth $4.3 million with the Hornets, is not expected to begin the 2015-16 NBA season as a starter like last season with the Lakers.
Lin is expected to be named as the main backup to Kemba Walker and could play several minutes at the two spot, but he pointed out he felt signing with the Hornets was his best option because it is where he can display his full arsenal in the coming seasons.
"I want to get back to what makes me what I am as a player, which is being aggressive, being on the attack and always charging toward the rim," Lin added. "I think that will help create easier shots for this team."
As for his short-term goal, Lin stressed that he is looking to make an impact in Charlotte and help the team make the playoffs, but stressed they will not be contended with finishing just eighth in Eastern Conference.
Hornets head coach Steve Clifford said that Lin will bring versatility to their team. Aside from creating opportunities for his teammates, Clifford said that the California native could space the floor for them with his three-point shooting and confuse defense with his ability to attack the rim.
Like Lin, Clifford also expects the Hornets to contend in the playoffs after making several moves this offseason. They parted ways with Lance Stephenson, but added Nicolas Batum, Spencer Hawes, Jeremy Lamb and rookie Frank Kaminsky from Wisconsin, who was the ninth overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft.
Jeremy Lin fans can watch the introductory press conference on this link from NBA.com.
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