NBA

Smith says Lin pact would cause jealousy among Knicks

LAS VEGAS — J.R. Smith believes the Knicks have moved on without Jeremy Lin and said he thinks there could have been jealousies regarding the young point guard’s new contract if he rejoined the Knicks.

The remarks come two days after Smith said he wanted to be paired up with Jason Kidd in the backcourt, whether it was starting or coming off the bench, a remark that slighted Lin. It also came hours after Carmelo Anthony called Lin’s offer sheet “a ridiculous contract.’’

“I’m sure the city would love to have him back, but the team decided to go in a different direction,” Smith said to SI.com as he attended the Las Vegas Summer League last night. “It’s nothing personal, I don’t think, just business. We just hope everybody can benefit from here.”

Smith re-signed with the Knicks days ago for $2.8 million with a second-year option after eight seasons in the NBA.

Lin has a resume of 26 games with starter’s minutes and parlayed it into a 3-year, $25 million offer sheet from the Rockets with a balloon payment of $14.9 million in the last season.

Asked if teammates could be jealous, Smith said, “Without a doubt. I think some guys take it personal, because they’ve been doing it longer and haven’t received any reward for it yet. I think it’s a tough subject to touch on for a lot of guys.”

When it looked like the Knicks were prepared to match Lin’s original offer sheet, Smith said three days ago he wanted Kidd by his side and never mentioned Lin.

“Wherever J-Kidd is, that’s where I want to be,” Smith said. “Wherever J-Kidd is, that’s where I’m at. That’s where I want to be. I love his game. I don’t know him personally. I love his demeanor toward the game, how serious he takes the game. I heard he’s one of the best teammates. He’s a class act from what I understand.’’

Kidd was arrested yesterday and charged with DWI after a traffic accident in the Hamptons.

Since Lin’s revised offer sheet became public, Anthony, Smith and Tyson Chandler all have said it would be tough for the Knicks to match because of the devastating luxury-tax ramifications. The Post reported Saturday night the Knicks do not plan on matching.