Report: Bulls know Gasol won't re-sign
Pau Gasol appears poised to join his fourth NBA franchise this summer.
The 35-year-old declined his $7.7-million player option with the Chicago Bulls on Monday, becoming an unrestricted free agent. While it's possible Gasol and the Bulls could work out a new contract, Nick Friedell of ESPN reports that both sides know he'll be playing elsewhere next season.
Gasol was critical of the Bulls after missing the playoffs, saying the team lacked a sense of urgency, maturity, and awareness. He stated in April that he would evaluate his options in free agency when the time came, but wasn't impressed by how his team responded to adversity.
Chicago's front office has already responded to Gasol's pending departure, acquiring center Robin Lopez last week in a deal that sent Derrick Rose to the New York Knicks.
Gasol should have no shortage of suitors this offseason, with the San Antonio Spurs expected to be one of the top destinations.
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