Jeremy Lin's return to the Knicks is far from certain, according to sources.

If a club offers Lin a backloaded contract that pays eight-figures in the third and fourth seasons, New York will not necessarily match it.

The Raptors are in the position to offer Lin a backloaded, 'poison pill' type of deal. Toronto is currently in pursuit of Steve Nash, but could pursue Lin as an alternative if they are unsuccessful.

The Knicks can offer Lin a four-year deal worth $24.5 million, but a rival team could go as high as $40 million over four years. The first and second seasons would pay $5 million annually and then $15 million in the final two seasons.

Toronto, Dallas and Brooklyn have all expressed interest in Lin, according to sources.