NBA Rumors: Jeremy Lin-Knicks Reunion Not Happening This Summer

Back in 2012, the New York Knicks became the talk of the NBA once again with Jeremy Lin bursting on the scene creating what was dubbed Linsanity.

As expected, Lin benefited greatly from his success with the Knicks as he went on to sign a lucrative contract with the Houston Rockets followed by a stint with the Los Angeles Lakers and Charlotte Hornets. Although Lin has indicated a desire to stay with the Hornets long-term, the veteran guard is still considered to be a valuable asset on the free agent market with teams expected to show interest.

Despite the Knicks’ need for an upgrade at the point guard position, it appears that Lin returning to New York isn’t a realistic possibility, according to Mark Berman of the New York Post:

It’s not a strong crop of free-agent point guards, with Memphis’ Mike Conley leading the top tier. Resurgent Rajon Rondo, Carmelo Anthony’s choice, is next, but some in the organization believe he hangs onto the ball too much. Brandon Jennings, D.J. Augustin, Ty Lawson, Jeremy Lin, Miami’s unsung Tyler Johnson, Aaron Brooks and Mario Chalmers are also free agents. Sources have indicated the Knicks consider Lawson’s off-court issues too big a risk and Lin’s defense too gaping.

The Hornets seemed to finally turn the corner during the 2015-16 NBA season with Lin becoming part of a dynamic backcourt duo with Kemba Walker. Although Lin appears to have reached his ceiling in terms of potential, the veteran journeyman may have finally found a long-term home in the NBA with mutual interest from Charlotte.

The real dilemma for the Knicks is finding the right fit at point guard and all signs point to the team going after Mike Conley to fill the void. Conley has been a solid contributor for the Memphis Grizzlies and could find it difficult to return with the Knicks likely offering big money under the bright lights of New York.