Tyson Chandler is glad to be back in Dallas as he asked the Knicks if they can explore dealing him, according to an NBA source.
“He wanted out,’’ the source said.
Chandler didn’t believe he was committed to the long-term future of the franchise as they openly spoke of having 2015 cap space. Chandler’s deal expires after this season, and he will become a free agent in 2015.
Chandler’s stint with the Knicks was less-than-spectacular, often injured or sick at the wrong times. His market value hit its zenith after helping the Mavericks win the 2011 title and the Knicks gave Chandler a four-year, $56 million pact.
“I think last year we saw the first signs of regression,’’ one league scout told The Post.
After his exit meeting, Chandler said he expected a lot of changes from a culture standpoint, clearly seeming to be fed up with the organization. The Knicks do not believe Chandler’s move to Dallas will entice Carmelo Anthony to join him there.
Chandler also didn’t seem to fit into Jackson’s triangle, though Jackson looked to dispute that. Jackson said Thursday Chandler played some triangle offense his rookie year in Chicago with Bill Cartwright and hoped he could relearn it.
“There was familiarity,’’ Jackson said. “That wasn’t what ruled out his situation here. Jackson said Chandler’s contract was expiring after the 2014-15 season and the club “did not want to not get anything in return’’ for such a strong asset.