The Charlotte Hornets would like to keep unrestricted free agent Jeremy Lin on board, but are worried that he will sign elsewhere. From ESPN’s Chris Broussard:
The Charlotte Hornets would like to re-sign free agent Jeremy Lin but are fearful of losing the point guard, according to league sources.
The Hornets’ top priority is bringing back Nicolas Batum, their free-agent swingman who had a breakout season, and they also want to re-sign Marvin Williams, who is a strong presence in the locker room, sources said.
Because Charlotte doesn’t own Lin’s Larry Bird Rights, those deals are likely to eat up the cap space the team would need to retain Lin.
While the door to a return is not completely closed, sources said Lin will meet with three other clubs beginning at midnight ET on July 1. The meetings will be held in Lin’s hometown of Palo Alto, California.
Lin proved useful for the Hornets this season as a backup for Kemba Walker, averaging 11.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in 26.3 minutes per game.
Lin, who has been a journeyman throughout his career, is ready to settle down and find a franchise to be his home. In six seasons, Lin has played for five teams: The Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, and of course the Hornets. Lin wants to find a team to stay with long-term. Whether that is Charlotte or elsewhere, we’ll find out.
