AD walks back comment about considering Bulls in free agency

Hold your horses, Chicago Bulls fans.

Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis sent Bulls fans into a frenzy Monday when he said signing with his hometown club next summer as a free agent would be "a possibility."

On Tuesday, he noted that he hadn't said joining the Bulls was in his plans for 2020.

"I didn't say I'd consider anything," Davis said, according to Kyle Goon of the Southern California News Group.

When asked to clarify exactly what he said, Davis answered: "I said that I'm focused on the championship with the Lakers. And, of course, everyone knows I'm going to be a free agent next year, and I said, 'We'll see where it goes.'"

The Lakers are in Chicago to take on the Bulls on Tuesday, and Davis held an event during his off day that involved a Q&A session with young athletes. When one attendee asked if he would ever sign with the Bulls, Davis seemingly left the door open and brought up his upcoming free agency.

"Honestly, it's nothing like playing at home," Davis answered, according to ESPN's Eric Woodyard. "I don't know. ... I mean, I am a free agent next year, but we'll see. It's a possibility."

It wasn't the first time this year Davis has teased a return home.

In an interview with the Chicago Tribune's K.C. Johnson in July, Davis referred to the city as the "Mecca of basketball" and admitted he would contemplate joining the Bulls if he had the chance.

"I mean, (this is) definitely hometown," Davis said then. "If the opportunity ever presents itself and when that time comes, I'd definitely consider it."

Davis holds a $28.7-million player option in his contract for the 2020-21 season, according to Spotrac, though he is expected to opt out in order to secure a new max deal.

The 26-year-old is playing his first season in Los Angeles after requesting a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans earlier this year. He's averaging 28.5 points, 11.5 rebounds, and a league-high three blocks per contest in six games.