The Nets may not be winning any more games since Yi Jianlian returned to the lineup, but the 7-0 forward from China has emerged as a bright spot and an unexpected offensive force for the hapless Nets.

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The 22-year old Yi has played seven games since his return from injury and put up 20.7 points per game on 47.6% from the field, 38.5% from three, and 79.6% from the free-throw line.

Add in 7 rebounds and one block and we’ve got a player on his way to a potentially breakout year in his third NBA season.

These performances are coming from a player that has averaged just 8.6 points on 40% shooting up until this season.

What’s the reason behind Yi’s improved play?

Taking a look at his numbers, it seems that aggressiveness is the reason for Yi’s statistical improvement as the former-sixth overall pick of the 2007 NBA draft is going to the free-throw line 5.8 times a game this season whereas he only went to the line an average of 2.1 times a game in his first two seasons – that’s a 176% improvement.

No longer is Jianlian relegated to shooting midrange jump shots with the Milwaukee Bucks, but he is taking it strong to the hole and fighting harder for rebounds; his newfound aggression has him putting up career highs of 16.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.2 blocks in 34 minutes per game.

“He’s shooting the ball with confidence, attacking the rim with tenacity and finishing strong,” said star guard Devin Harris. “He’s capable of it. I’ve seen him jump just as high as Sean [Williams] in certain places. He’s got the athleticism. He’s a very talented individual.”

Unfortunately, Yi’s newly-inspired play hasn’t translated to additional victories. The Nets are just 1-10 in the eleven games that Jianlian has participated in, but at least his play is a bright spot in an otherhwise forgettable season.