Recent NBA rumors have emerged that New York Knicks forward Derrick Williams could be interested in playing for his hometown squad, the Los Angeles Lakers, next season after his recent comments that said LA is his "home" before the Knicks' games against the Clippers and Lakers last week.

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Basketball Insiders indicated that the 24-year-old La Mirada, California native had revealed that the Lakers "exhibited strong interest in him last summer, and they could be a threat to the Knicks if he opts out this July".

Williams is in the first year of his 2-year, $8.8 million contract with the Knicks this season, which comes with a player option in the summer. The 2nd overall pick of the 2011 NBA Draft could choose to opt in and finish his deal next season in New York or to opt out and receive offers from other ballclubs at the end of the season.

The Lakers were reportedly one of the teams interested in acquiring Williams' services for next season and the feeling is said to be mutual between the player and the Hollywood squad.

"That's my home," he said, as reported by the New York Post's Marc Berman. "I'm from L.A., Orange County. I love it but at the same time I'm here, love playing in New York, home away from home. This weekend will be great. I haven't been home since August. It's always great to play before family and friends. I can't wait to go back."

Berman, who referred to Williams as "the Knicks' most athletic player", continued that Phil Jackson and his crew are hoping that "he doesn't opt out of the $4.5 million he has left" as the Lakers will surely have the upperhand in acquiring him if that happens.

Williams admitted that he "made the right choice" though.

"I felt like I picked the right spot where I wanted to be - that was New York to play with Carmelo (Anthony), I knew they had a great pick in KP (20-year-old Latvian rookie Kristaps Porzingis), all the pieces we have here," said Williams. "We haven't played well the last month, but I don't think it sums up our whole season."

TagsNBA rumors, Derrick Williams, new york knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, Knicks rumors