The trade deadline passed by and Jeremy Lin stayed put with the Houston Rockets as he surprisingly endured all the rumours circulating around on Thursday's deadline.

For the first time in his four-year career, the 25-year-old Lin will have a legitimate chance to win a championship with the star-studded Rockets, though he's aware that good things won't last, and his performance for the remainder of the season will serve as the measuring stick if he's going to be a valuable piece for the franchise moving forward.

Lin might just be averaging at least 14 points and 4 assists per game, but his impact on the game has been immense. Besides being the top bench scorer for the Rockets, Lin has provided the team an X-Factor in games pitted against NBA Elites such as the San Antonio Spurs, Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder.

His production will be crucial for the Rockets, as All-Stars James Harden and Dwight Howard spearhead the team's effort on both end of the floor.

Make or Break Second Half

After this season, Lin is expected to receive $15 million in the final year of his poison pill contract he signed two years ago. Ever since his arrival, Lin's game has been criticised by pundits who believe the former Harvard standout didn't deserve to receive such a lucrative deal.

At the 11th hour of Thursday's trade deadline, there were rumours the Rockets were about to include in a package for Boston Celtics playmaker Rajon Rondo. Obviously, no trade took place in a very underwhelming trade deadline negotiation in the year.

Despite surviving being shipped to another team, Lin is aware that his tenure in Houston remains under threat. The Rockets could revive their attempt to get Rondo in the summer where blockbuster deals are expected to happen.

For Lin to stay with the Rockets, he has to always bring that aggressive mindset on the floor. Rockets head coach Kevin McHale and Harden already admitted that they liked Lin when he's attacking rim. Moreover, Lin's tendency to embrace big moments could also bode well for the Rockets, especially in the playoffs where a role player can really change the complexion of a game.

There are plenty of reasons to trade Lin. On the other hand, there are a million reasons to stay pat with him heading into the crucial stage of their campaign. Clearly, the Rockets put trust on Lin and it's up to him to show them what he's got under his sleeves.

For more Jeremy Lin news, read more at IBT Sports