NBA Rumors: 6 Teams with Best Shot at Prying Jeremy Lin from NY Knicks

Jeremy Lin is the fastest rising star in the NBA, combining a caution to the wind approach on the court with undeniable marketability off of it. He is also a free agent.

Although many might expect the star guard to re-sign with the team that took a chance on him, Jeremy Lin's agent has reported that the re-signing process is no shoo-in. Instead, Lin will test free agency and inevitably garner attention from a surplus of teams.

Here's a list of teams who actually stand a chance in prying Jeremy Lin free from the New York Knicks.

Brooklyn Nets

Should the Brooklyn Nets fail to re-sign Deron Williams, is it possible that they will target their cross-bridge rival's greatest marketing tool? Alex Kennedy of HoopsWorld.com believes so.

The Nets recently made the move to Brooklyn and are likely to amp up the marketing campaign in the near future. There may not be a better player to build around than New York City's favorite NBA player, transferring the Linsanity brand from the Manhattan to Brooklyn.

As for on the court, Lin's up-tempo style of play could be what the Nets need. MarShon Brooks would benefit from Lin's drive-and-dish tendencies, as would potential re-signing Gerald Wallace.

Dallas Mavericks

According to Alex Kennedy of HoopsWorld.com, the Dallas Mavericks are interested in signing Jeremy Lin. Dwain Price of the Star Telegram confirms the story.

The signing of Lin clearly hinges on the potential destination of highly-touted point guard Deron Williams. With Williams reportedly favoring the Brooklyn Nets, as well as placing the Los Angeles Lakers above the Dallas Mavericks on his short list, the likelihood of the Mavericks' signing D-Will becomes awfully unlikely.

Lin could be Dallas bound before you know it.

Golden State Warriors

The Golden State Warriors infamously passed up on Jeremy Lin, cutting him from their roster. With Lin's roots in the Bay Area of California, however, forgiveness may not be out of the question as the Warriors attempt to bring more stability to the point.

For those questioning the likelihood of this deal, the Golden State Warriors are supposedly interested in Lin's services. While New York may have made Lin into a star, the Oakland-San Francisco area is nearby Lin's home. Hard to resist the temptation of a homecoming.

As for how Lin would fit in, Stephen Curry's long history with injuries would certainly open the door for Lin to see major playing time.

Los Angeles Lakers

According to Mike Bresnahan of the Los Angeles Times, the Los Angeles Lakers could have signed Jeremy Lin before Linsanity even began. According to the Lakers' remaining need for a point guard, they still could.

Ramon Sessions was a great acquisition but is far from the point guard who will take the Lakers over the top. Steve Blake, meanwhile, is a solid enough reserve but could certainly be upgraded.

In acquiring Lin, the aging legs of the Los Angeles Lakers would likely find new life. They'd also have a legitimate transition threat that they currently lack.

Portland Trail Blazers

According to Alex Kennedy of HoopsWorld.com, the Portland Trail Blazers are interested in signing Jeremy Lin to be their point guard of the future. With all factors measured, Portland may just be the best case scenario for Linsanity.

The Trail Blazers are in dire need of an upgrade at the point, as their talented surrounding pieces are unable to flow without the presence of consistent play at the position. LaMarcus Aldridge would offer Lin a legitimate star teammate who is more than capable of running the pick-and-roll, as well as the pick-and-pop.

Potential teammate Nicolas Batum would offer perimeter scoring, as would Wesley Matthews, which acclimates to Lin's drive-and-dish tendencies. This team is built for a Jeremy Lin-type point guard.

Toronto Raptors

According to Mitch Lawrence of the New York Daily News, the Toronto Raptors are poised to make a major run at signing Jeremy Lin. Considering Jerryd Bayless' history with injuries, as well as his hitting free agency, the move might not be such a bad idea.

"

The Raptors are also a potential landing spot for Jeremy Lin. They like him and what he'd do for their attendance, but Toronto would have to "back-load" an offer to the restricted free agent, paying him gazillions in the final couple of years of a deal, and hope that the Knicks would not match. According to league sources, that's what the Raptors just might do if their Nash plan falls through.

"

An interesting development in the Jeremy Lin saga. One that could potentially steal Lin away from the New York Knicks.