Justin Holiday explains why he thought he'd re-sign with Knicks and what went wrong

CHICAGO — Justin Holiday wanted to return to the Knicks and believed the feeling was mutual. But as his free agency unfolded and the Knicks bided their time, Holiday said he felt pressured to take an offer from Chicago.

The aftermath led to a contract probably below his value ($9 million over two years), a separation from his agent and a surging career with the surging Bulls.

"I believe the Knicks would have (made an offer). I believe they would have. With them not doing anything early (in free agency), they communicated to me what the situation was," Holiday told the Daily News. "So it's not like I hate the Knicks now. I mean, I honestly believe if I waited something would've happened. But at the same time you never know."

Last season Holiday was the lone Knick to play all 82 games, becoming a dependable wing during a season clouded by dysfunction. Following the 51-loss campaign, Holiday said he spoke with president Steve Mills and coach Jeff Hornacek, both of whom expressed desire for a reunion.

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"They said they're going to take their time (in free agency), make some moves and figure out some things but we want you back," Holiday said. "They made it very clear they wanted me back."

According to a source, Holiday's agent at the time, Jason Glushon, tried to push a big contract for his client and even attempted to turn Holiday and his brother, Jrue, into a package deal.

The Knicks balked and pivoted toward Tim Hardaway Jr. That was the end of their interest in Holiday, 28, despite the forward's feeling that New York would've eventually made an offer.

The rest of New York's cap space went to Ron Baker, whose contract matches Holiday's in money and length.

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Holiday said he parted ways with his agent after free agency. Regardless of how the negotiations unfolded, the destination has been a boon to Holiday's playing career.

He is averaging career highs in minutes (33.5), rebounds (4.6), assists (2.3), steals (1.2) and points (13.4) with the Bulls.

On Wednesday, he scored eight of his 11 points in the fourth quarter in a 92-87 victory over the Knicks — while Hardaway Jr. (stress injury) and Baker (DNP-coach's decision) were on the bench.

Holiday credits his lone season in New York with building him to this point. He wanted a reunion but at least he still has the experience.

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"That year was amazing for me. I know people thought it was crazy from the outside but it was a great year," Holiday said. "I got to play at the Garden. I learned a lot by playing with (Carmelo Anthony, Joakim Noah). And also to have the opportunity to play in big games — play in a Christmas game. It was a big step in my career."