If there is one person that believes the Los Angeles Lakers can still be a top contender this season, it is none other than their point guard Jeremy Lin.
What was once known as the "Showtime" team, the Lakers are off to a disappointing start, currently holding a win-loss slate of 5-14. And according to a report by the San Jose Mercury News, the team is ranked dead last in total defense, allowing their opponents to score an average of 111.1 points per game.
Lin himself has not been doing well this season, so far. In a separate report by NBC Sports, the former New York Knicks sensation is averaging a mere satisfactory stat line of 11.9 points and 4.9 assists when he assumed the starting point guard duties.
However, the report adds that Lin may be relegated back to the bench for the Lakers' succeeding assignments. Taking his place would be 31-year old veteran Ronnie Price.
Playing in his first season dawning the purple and gold jersey, reports have arose about what seems to be a strained relationship between Lin and long-time superstar franchise player Kobe Bryant. The report also notes that despite the mutual respect both men have for each other, there also lies a tough assignment in developing the perfect chemistry involving him and the team.
"Sometimes we might not agree on everything," Lin explained. "But it's not because we're trying to be selfish or because we have ulterior motives. It's all about doing the right thing and trying to give ourselves the best chance to win."
Currently, Laker loyalists are in disarray with how their team has been performing, so far. Many are already skeptical about the franchise's chance to make another championship run, something that has not happened since 2010. And for a high-profile team like the Los Angeles Lakers, this is a big deal.
But as far as Lin is concerned, he still believes that his team can make a decent run this year.
"People probably think I'm crazy, but I don't really care. I think this team can make the playoffs," Lin confidently declared. "I believe in that and I know other guys believe in that as well. It's very early."
