Lets play what if for a moment. I think it's safe to say young Mr. Lin is a hard working, dedicated individual. I think it's also safe to say he has the skill set to excel at his position. Yes there are some very good point guards in the west, and two of them play in the largest market in the division, (hell in the same building for that matter).

What they do not have going for them is the vast sea of new fans in China that Yao was instrumental in creating. Those folks seemed to get pretty excited about our new guard last season. Add to that the established marketing channels the Rockets have over there, and it seems pretty likely that the young man will get some heavy support from across the big ditch. As a betting man, I would put some money on it. The best thing is, the China connection is so valuable that even a certain jackass who's name I will spare you from would be hesitant to employ "basketball reasons" to intervene.

So what do you folks think the chances are?