Jeremy Lin has been on a tear recently, but will the former Harvard University standout earn a starting spot?
Charlotte Hornets coach Steve Clifford had nothing but praises for Lin after the 27-year-old had a string of impressive performances. However, the second-year head coach told the Charlotte Observer that the Palo Alto, California native will likely come off the bench for the remainder of the season.
"He's come off the bench all year," Clifford said, when asked about the possibility of starting Lin. "Most of his NBA career he's been coming off the bench. That's where it's going to be. That's his role."
Lin, who signed a two-year deal worth $4.37 million last summer, has played well in their last three wins.
Against the San Antonio Spurs, Lin finished with 29 points and seven rebounds to lead the Hornets to a 91-88 victory. Lin then scored 21 points the following day, helping the Hornets escape with a narrow 105-100 win against the Brooklyn Nets.
More: Jeremy Lin Leads Charlotte Hornets to Win Over San Antonio Spurs
In their 115-91 win against the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, Lin had just nine points on 4-for-5 shooting from the field but also tallied five steals, four rebounds and four assists for the Hornets.
"I think being comfortable and not thinking as much on the court and letting the ball fly and having fun," Lin said of his recent performances via Associated Press. "Shots are going in and I think that helps me, helps open up my drive."
Lin has played a big role in Charlotte's impressive run this month, winning in 12 of their 15 games. The Hornets are currently sixth in the Eastern Conference with their 42-31 record and are still in the running for one of the top four playoff spots in the East.
The Hornets are behind the Cleveland Cavaliers (52-21), Toronto Raptors (49-23), Atlanta Hawks (44-30), Boston Celtics (43-30) and the Miami Heat (42-30).
Lin is confident that they can improve their playoff chances as long as they will stay healthy and continue playing the right way.
"At times, it looked bleak and we were struggling," Lin said via ESPN. "But we always felt, on paper, if we do this right, if we buy in, if guys get healthy and stay healthy, we have a chance, that we belong in the top tier of the East."
Lin and the Hornets will play the Philadelphia 76ers in a home-and-home series on Tuesday and Friday.
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