The Los Angeles Lakers are rumored to try to trade off Jeremy Lin before the trade deadline.
Inquisitr reported that the point guard transferred from the Houston Rockets to Los Angeles, hoping to be a huge contributor and to eventually take on the leadership role when Kobe Bryant retires. However, he has been inconsistent in several games and instead of being a highly favored player, he has played off the bench, averaging 10.4 points and 4.7 assists per game.
Although the Lakers are said to be preparing to trade Lin, there are a number of hindrances that will prevent a deal from happening.
First is his huge contract, based on an article by ESPN. Lin is getting paid $8.37 million by the Lakers in the current season, but is earning almost $15 million because of the offer sheet he signed with the Rockets in July 2012. In the current season, the team should still pay him $6.05 million. Second is the lack of a player to trade Lin with. Because of his big contract and inconsistent nights, it will be challenging for the Lakers to find a player to replace him. If they ever find any, that player may also bring a bad contract with him. If the Lakers are truly looking to trade Lin, they will most likely agree to trade with whatever team wants him.
Based on the same Inquisitr report, a trade can benefit both Lin and the Lakers. Lin's confidence has wavered in the past several months because of the constantly changing roles he was required to play under the direction of Lakers coach Byron Scott.
Lin can be an asset to a championship-winning team. Lin previously said that he will "cross the bridge" when the right time comes. Fansided reported that Lin has the potential and skills to be a good starting point guard when surrounded by the right people who will boost his confidence. He plays well when he is allowed to hold the basketball for longer periods.
The decision to keep or trade Lin will also heavily rely on Bryant. According to insiders, the Lakers is considering his advice and recommendations very seriously in terms of acquiring free agents and trading in the present NBA season. The Lakers, in the meantime, will see who they may acquire in exchange for Lin. If an asset does show up, it will be right for the team to make the deal happen before the deadline.