Jeremy Lin Return: Star Won't Save New York Knicks from Postseason Failure

If Jeremy Lin can return to the New York Knicks for Game 4, it will be great news.

At least for anyone making money from their television viewership.

And all those watching should enjoy the spectacle while it lasts—chances of a Game 5 encore are slim to none. Of course, if anyone could inspire an upset victory against the Miami Heat, it's Jeremy Lin. 

Beyond the motivational factor, Lin would make a difference on the court too—just not nearly enough of one.

At the very least, Lin will give the Knicks support at a position currently manned by Baron Davis and Mike Bibby. While both veterans have exceeded expectations against Miami, there's no question even a rusty Lin would be an upgrade.

New York's offense has struggled mightily against the Heat, and Lin's crisp passing and ability to execute the pick-and-roll would help smooth some things out.

Even at his best, though, Lin isn't a perfect solution to those offensive struggles. In his only game against the Heat this season, Lin went 1-11 from the field and coughed up eight turnovers to go along with just three assists.

Miami's perimeter quickness and strength were overwhelming at times for the 23-year-old.

It goes without saying that even should Lin be able to return in this series, he won't be at his best. He's missed 19 consecutive games after having surgery to repair a meniscus tear in his left knee. Returning to the playoffs from such a stint is a rude awakening in its own right.

Doing so against the Miami Heat is downright inhumane.

There's every reason to believe Lin will give the Knicks a fighting chance against this team in the future, but he's in no position to do so right now.

LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh have hit a nearly unstoppable stride, and Lin is more likely to be their next victim than any kind of savior.

Still, this team has played significantly better at home under Mike Woodson, and Carmelo Anthony has been known to completely take games over in Amar'e Stoudemire's absence.

Of course, if Lin and Carmelo Anthony do the unthinkable in New York and turn this series around, a fairy tale season would reach unprecedented levels. Given the turmoil this team has undergone this year, just getting back into this series would be an accomplishment deserving of appreciation.

We can all hope Lin caps off his remarkable season in fitting style.

Just don't count on it.