Before we get into things, let me just say, it is way too early to claim Jeremy Lin as a superstar. The kid is full potential and he blew up while playing for the New York Knicks at a time when the team was struggling.
He played in the most famous arena and resurrected a team whose fans were losing hope, which magnified Lin's performance.
Lin singlehandedly saved the Knicks' season in 2011.
He showed up huge against the Los Angeles Lakers as many said the success came against weaker opponents like the New Jersey Nets and Washington Wizards. Lin helped defeat the Lakers in grand fashion, scoring 38 points and dishing 7 assists in that game.
The kid can pass and he proved clutch, especially against the Toronto Raptors on Valentine's Day as he hit a three with time running out.
But when the Knicks lost, Lin simply looked like an average player. He had an incredible run and then he got injured.
He averaged 14.6 points, 6.2 assists and 1.6 steals over 35 games.
Would you consider Jarret Jack of the New Orleans Hornets or Mike Conley of the Memphis Grizzlies a superstar?
Jack averaged 15.6 points a game and had 6.3 assists in 39 games for the Hornets, but he is just a good player. Conley had 12.7 points and 6.5 assists in 61 games played and again, he is a role player.
These guys are veterans, why compare them to Lin?
Okay, so Kyrie Irvin of the Cleveland Cavaliers, owner of the Rookie of the Year award, averaged 18.5 with 5.4 assists a game with the Cleveland Cavaliers and he has yet to earn the title of "superstar" in the NBA. He has a lot of potential to become a start in the league.
Then another question, if he really were a superstar in the NBA, because being a celebrity like Lin relates to popularity, then why would the Knicks not match the Houston Rockets' offer?
Ask yourself this, are Lin's numbers worth $25 million, with a heavy $14.5 million pay load awaiting the player in his last year?
As of right now, Lin's 2011 numbers are replaceable and there is no reason to overpay for his production.
I would like to wait for Lin's 2012 performance to then give him the title of a superstar. He will be carrying the offense over there and will not have to worry about pleasing a Carmelo Anthony or Amar'e Stoudemire.
As of now he is a talented player with the skills to develop into a great baller.
