Jason Kidd Comes to the Knicks to Win and Mentor Lin

Jason Kidd suffered career low numbers last year in Dallas. His points, assists, and minutes played all hit new lows. It appears Kidd could be headed for new low numbers in New York, but he is fully aware and comfortable with that.

In an interview with ESPN New York Radio (98.7), Kidd says he is comfortable with playing 20-25 minutes a game in a backup role. If the New York Knicks match the offer sheet given to Jeremy Lin by the Houston Rockets, Kidd would appear set to play the backup point guard role in New York.

Kidd mentioned New York's roster as having the upper hand over the Dallas Mavericks. Kidd recognized the notion of mentoring Jeremy Lin by saying, "With the intention of signing Lin Back, I saw that I can help. Hopefully help them win and help Lin."

The new $9 million deal for three years was a great pickup by the New York Knicks. Monday marks the official opening of free agency and will mark the point where we learn whether or not Kidd signs as part of a sign and trade deal. If a deal like this is signed, it could free up more cash for the Knicks and ultimately lead to the re-signing of Jeremy Lin.