Jeremy Lin: What Linsanity Must Do to Extend New York Knicks' Winning Streak

The Jeremy Lin experience is about to hit phase two.

He has already shocked the league (and the world) with his aggressive play and incredible poise, now it’s time to see what he can do with a big bullseye on his back.

In the same way that player’s started treating Tim Tebow, NBA players are jealous of Lin’s absurdly fast rise to stardom. They want to be the guy to take him down a peg.

The good news is that Lin will have the services of Amar'e Stoudemire after the big man sat out last week while he grieved the sudden death of his brother. Stoudemire is chomping at the bit to play alongside a point guard like Lin that can properly run a Mike D’Antoni offense.

The two can coexist without a problem.

The issue lies in the return of Carmelo Anthony, set to return in the next week. Lin has captured the attention of the nation and you can bet it secretly has ‘Melo looking to one-up him.

Then again, maybe the emergence of Lin is actually a blessing in disguise for the All Star’s game. At least that’s what ‘Melo told reporters on Monday:

"

I know there are questions about, 'Can I fit in?' and stuff like that, but this is like a dream come true to me. It takes some pressure off of me. I don't have to play point guard. I don't have to try to get Amare 20 points, try to get this guy 20 points, me try to go out there and get 25-30 points a night, play defense, rebound do the whole thing.

"

Ah yes, the “whole thing.” If ‘Melo is true to his word, Lin is going to average 15 assists per game. He takes the best angle to beat his defender and has terrific vision for a player with so little experience. With Stoudemire flashing in the post and ‘Melo running off screens, this offense is suddenly potent with Lin in charge.

With Stoudemire, Lin can run a pick-and-roll, with ‘Melo he can penetrate and dish. Lin’s scoring is going to take a sizable dip, but that was to be expected. Point guards aren’t supposed to average 26 points a game.

The one issue Lin needs to work on is his turnovers. He has averaged 4.6 a game and it has stalled the offense at times. Then again, it’s totally understandable to have an abundance of turnovers in your first few games as a full-time player.

Lin has provided the Knicks with a five-game winning streak, a rejuvenated fanbase and realistic hopes of postseason success…all in the span of a little over a week.

Now his job is to keep everyone happy with their touches, while ensuring ‘Melo doesn’t fall into his one-on-one habits that stall the offense.

Right now, as crazy as it is to say, Lin has more credibility than ‘Melo with his fanbase and coaching staff. Expect his shots to go down, but expect the playmaking ability of Lin to shine as the Knicks and their soft upcoming schedule (at Toronto, vs. Sacramento, vs. New Orleans, vs. Dallas, vs. New Jersey) can potentially win 10 straight games.

If that happens with Lin continuing to play a large role?

Linsanity will officially take over the world.