Jeremy Lin was right in the middle of the Charlotte Hornets 96-80 win over the Miami Heat in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference playoff series, earning the franchise their first playoff win in 14 seasons.

In the days leading up to the Hornets must-win situation, the man who has known more ups and downs than arguably anyone to ever grace the hardwood talked about finally being at peace with himself and having finally come to the full understanding of what he's always known he can provide for an NBA team.

Lin Feels in a Different Place

"I think I'm just in a different place, mentally, spiritually, where I'm able to enjoy this job more and more," he said. "The lows don't affect me the way they used to anymore."

In Game 3, Lin was all about letting the good times roll, bagging a team-high 18 points to go along with four rebounds and four assists as the Hornets also ended a 12-game playoff losing streak.

"This isn't about winning one playoff game, it's about winning a playoff series," said Charlotte coach Steve Clifford. "This gives us a chance."

And with that, the spotlight once again comes calling for Jeremy Lin. Only this time, it's an entirely different man who seems to be emerging.

For one thing, readily Lin admits for the first time in what seems like forever he is actually enjoying the job he's chosen to make his life's work. No longer does he feel burdened to fulfill the superstar standards some pegged for him after his brief run of "Linsanity" with the Knicks back in 2012.

Lin breaks Intangibles

"He's a much, much better defender than people realize," Clifford recently told reporters. "He competes hard every night, and he's a very serious player."

It's all helped to put Lin back on the radar in what could be an off-season of free agency for him. When recently asked if he planned to opt out of his deal this summer, Lin demurred, choosing to keep the same low profile he's taken on all season.

No worries, his coach was willing to speak for him.

"I think he's got another big jump in his game," said Clifford. And surely his hope is that will come about in a Charlotte Hornets uniform.

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