Linsanity to Minnesota? This Jeremy Lin trade idea would immediately upgrade Minnesota’s bench going into the post season.
While the times of “Linsanity” are objectively over with, we are still stuck with witnessing a very solid role player in the Atlanta Hawks‘ Jeremy Lin – who has seen himself in some intense situations over the past few years.
Lin, who has played with more franchises than I have fingers, is looking to set up shop somewhere as a role player that respects his hard work and grit, Minnesota could be that team.
It’s safe to say that most Minnesota fans would be fearful of moving Tyus Jones. However, it’s important to note that Jones’ highest trade value could be this moment and that Derrick Rose will most likely want to stay with head coach Tom Thibodeau for the foreseeable future.
Therefore, trading away Jones for a better and more playoff ready guard in Jeremy Lin could be what this team needs. Lin would bring a well-rounded performance to this roster and improve on most of Tyus Jones’ qualities as a point guard, especially in the scoring arena.
Lin could also potentially be placed next to Jeff Teague or Derrick Rose in the starting lineup, as he fits nicely as a shooting guard as well.
And giving up the Gorgui Dieng contract with a future second round pick also lets Minnesota free up some cap (not a whole lot, but still) over the next few seasons.
This is definitely a possible move that would allow Atlanta to fall lower in the standings and tank this season, while still giving way for Minnesota to become a better team.
However, like most of the future trades, letting Dieng go without a big man to play the backup center would make an awkward roster – but it’s well worth it for the likes of Jeremy Lin on a one-year deal.