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Will the Bulls rebuild?

by Tim Moczula       July 23rd, 2012 4:55 PM
  • Will-the-Bulls-rebuild
  • Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose during the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-US PRESSWIRE 3/4/2012 9:11:12 PM

    • The Chicago Bulls clearly struggled without Derrick Rose this past season They were upset in the first round of the playoffs by the 76ers, becoming one of just three No. 1 seeds to be ousted by an 8 seed. Now, with Rose's most recent injury update that states he will likely be out until at least March, the team needs to seriously consider a rebuild.

    Chicago has already made some moves that suggest they plan to do so. Omer Asik's $25.1 million contract will most likely not be matched in order to make room for Nazr Mohammed. Although nowhere near as talented as Asik, Mohammed comes at a much cheaper price ($1.4 million). Asik's contract is also similar to Jeremy Lin's, and it would put the Bulls in a tight financial situation down the road if they decided to match it, so many are okay with letting the 7-footer walk.


    Using the amnesty buyout on Carlos Boozer might be the next move for Chicago. Credit: Eric Hartline-US PRESSWIRE

    The team also let go of Kyle Korver's $5 million salary and signed Vladimir Radmonovic to a minimum deal. C.J Watson and Ronnie Brewer were not re-signed, saving Chicago $7.2 million. They recently signed Kirk Hinrich to a two-year, $6 million deal in hope that he can run the point during Rose's absence. Marco Belinelli was also signed to a 1-year deal worth just under $2 million.

    Although many feel that Chicago can hold their own until Rose returns then make a run in the playoffs, recent activity suggests the team feels otherwise. Losing Rose was a huge blow last season, and Chicago now seems to be keeping their sights on the future. The team is letting go of role players and taking on minimum contracts to keep open future salary space. With this approach, the Bulls are finally showing signs of a rebuild.

    If they decide to tank next season, they already are a step ahead in the rebuilding process that would culminate in a 2014 title run. If they fail to make the playoffs, they would receive a lottery pick for next year's draft. Some top talent could definitely benefit from playing with Rose and could be a steal for the team. Another move that would have to be made is to use the amnesty on Carlos Boozer's contract, which pays him $47.1 million over the next three years. The forward has not played up to his high salary and is a burden on Chicago's books. Additionally, the team would have to let Luol Deng walk when his contract expires.

    By getting rid of some big contracts, the Bulls would put themselves in a great position to bring in another star during 2014 free agency. With names such as Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Carmelo Anthony all on the market (to name just a few), building for 2014 does not seem like a bad idea. The Bulls did, however, see success with their current core and might want to preserve what they already have. It will be interesting to see what approach they will take.

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