The Chicago Bulls have not met this season’s expectations. They are in danger of missing the playoffs after expectations were that the team would be competing for a high seed. Pau Gasol, a two-time All-Star with the Bulls, is approaching free agency. The 35-year-old may look to play elsewhere next season.
During this past trade deadline, there was talks of Gasol being shopped around but stayed put. Bulls General Manager Gar Forman then said Gasol was “part of our core.”
Now from the Chicago Tribute, K.C. Johnson reports that the Bulls are “softening on the public stance” that Forman stated about Gasol. Gasol is now more open-minded about his future.
If they to decide to part ways I think it works out for both the Bulls and Pau Gasol. For one thing, if Chicago does not make the playoffs, expect some heavy changes to the roster and staff. They can let Gasol go and start fresh at the power forward spot.
This also works for Gasol. The 15-year veteran can still play. He joined the Bulls last season because he wanted to compete for a championship. It is obvious that is a bit of a reach for this struggling team, so him becoming a free agent at this time can not be better timing. He may be up there in age, but Gasol has been averaging 16.5 points, 11.0 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game. Not bad for a well-respected veteran with championship experience.
The Bulls are still the 9th seed in the East, one game back behind the Indiana Pacers. There is still time to make a quick run. In the end, they have a lot of odds against them and they might want to start thinking about their future.
