The Los Angeles Lakers are off to a disappointing start this season, but starting point guard Jeremy Lin believes that they will turn their fortunes around this season.
For his part, Lin, who is playing in his first season in Los Angeles, feels that God is challenging him this year as he also had his fair share of disappointing performances in their first 17 games this season.
"When life is tough, it forces me to re-evaluate everything and learn to depend on God more than I initially think I need to," Lin wrote on his official website. "God continually stretches me and challenges me through basketball, and I'm just trying to live each day pleasing Him."
Lin, who was traded from the Houston Rockets to the Lakers in the offseason, added that he is learning to depend on what God can do for him instead of just leaning on his physical capabilities.
"One verse that has really spoke to me recently is John 3:30 -- He must increase but I must decrease," Lin wrote. "This is counterintuitive to everything society preaches, but more of God and less of me is always the best formula."
The 26-year-old point guard, who is playing in his fifth NBA season, is averaging 12.5 points to go along with 5.1 assists and 2.8 rebounds per game this season.
Lin's numbers are impressive, but most fans and NBA analysts feel that the former Harvard University standout should do a better job in leading the Lakers this season. The Lakers are at the cellar of the Western Conference standings with their 4-13 record.
Lin is aware that fans are growing frustrated about their performance this season. He expressed gratitude to those who still trust him and the entire team, and also made a prayer request to their fans.
"The journey I've been on has had its ups and downs and I appreciate all of your support throughout," Lin said. "Some of you have asked how to pray for me so I decided to start a prayer group where I can send out requests for those that want to pray and support."
