Knicks Rumors: New York Must Retain Jeremy Lin to Become Contenders in East

The New York Knicks are expected to match the Houston Rocket's offer made to Jeremy Lin.

According to Jared Zwerling of ESPN New York:

"

New York Knicks coach Mike Woodson said on Wednesday the team will "absolutely" match the Houston Rockets' four-year, $28.8 million offer sheet for Jeremy Lin.

Woodson said he didn't blink at all when the Rockets made their official pitch last week.

"

This is a smart move for the Knicks because the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference has only made improvements. And for New York to become contenders in the East, retaining its star point guard must happen.

In doing so, let's break down why Linsanity is so vital to the Knicks' long-term future.

Experienced Youth

Earlier in July, the Knicks managed to land veteran point guard Jason Kidd, per ESPN's Marc Stein.

For as much experience and knowledge of the game Kidd brings to Madison Square Garden, the man is also 39 years old. So, he's obviously not going to be around for the next decade.

Lin on the other hand, is only 23 and displayed an immense amount of potential after the 2011-12 season.

Also playing for the Knicks last season were Baron Davis and Mike Bibby. Now, both are currently unrestricted free agents, although it would be surprising to see either come back with Kidd on board.

Nonetheless, Lin alone solidifies a stronger and more prominent future.

Potential

After not receiving much playing time as a rookie in 2010-11, Jeremy Lin made his first real impact at the end of January.

Although he played just six minutes in a game against the Charlotte Bobcats, Lin scored eight points and had four assists with two rebounds. That set the table for a better game against the Houston Rockets shortly thereafter with nine points, six assists and three boards in 20 minutes.

It was then that you could see Lin's potential and confidence rising. Not long after did he take over the NBA spotlight and become an appealing free agent. Prior to that Bobcats game, Lin had appeared five times before.

His potential comes from the ability to develop and go from bench-warmer to starter in such a quick fashion. With an offseason to improve, we can only expect more from Lin in 2012-13.

Team Talent

So there's Jason Kidd to help with the rotation and the obvious starters Carmelo Anthony, Amar'e Stoudemire and Tyson Chandler.

Well, the Knicks also have two other players to count on in Marcus Camby and J.R. Smith. In an article by Nate Taylor of the New York Times:

"

On Tuesday, J. R. Smith announced his return to the team, hours after the Knicks agreed to sign Marcus Camby, who will back up Tyson Chandler.

"

Talk about some impressive talent for starters and the rotation. Camby significantly helps the frontcourt while Smith just enhances the backcourt.

For as well as Lin dished the rock around last season, that production will only increase in 2012-13. New York simply provides too much overall talent and depth right now to not bring back Lin. He's the Knicks' best bet in a future point guard and the right man to raise everyone's ability.

Follow John Rozum on Twitter.