The Los Angeles Lakers saw Jeremy Lin make his return to the starting lineup last week, but it may not be a permanent situation.
Lin lost his place in the starting lineup 20 games into the disappointing season, with veteran Ronnie Price taking over the spot. But this week, Price suffered both a broken nose and flu-like symptoms, allowing Lin to retake his starting spot.
It wasn’t exactly the return that Jeremy Lin expected. Though Lin shot 5-for-9 (including 2-for-4 from behind the three-point line), the Lakers were blown out by their crosstown rival Clippers, 114-89.
Price took his place in the starting lineup the next game, a win against the Orlando Magic. But Jeremy Lin still found a way to shine. With Kobe Bryant taking the game off to rest after a torrid stretch, Lin led the team in scoring with 18 points to go, along with six assists and four steals.
Lin said the following after the game.
“That was awesome, man. That’s all I have to say.”
But despite the strong performance — and the fact Lin leads the team in assists — the team may have other plans for him in the future. Rumors indicate that the Los Angeles Lakers are looking to trade the guard , kick-starting their rebuild before the season even ends.
Rumors are swirling around a series of offseason moves the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly interested in taking. The team will reportedly be targeting Rajon Rondo, as well as Kevin Love, who may already be on his way out of the Cleveland Cavaliers. It’s not clear if Jeremy Lin fits in with these long-term plans, but his diminishing playing time points to trouble.
And Jeremy Lin isn’t the only member of the Los Angeles Lakers who could be on the move soon. There have also been plenty of rumors surrounding Kobe Bryant , with some sources close to the team indicating that the front office may move him mid-season to a contender, as long as the price is right.
[Image via Los Angeles Times ]
