Free agent big man Pau Gasol will beef up the frontline of the Chicago Bulls after he agreed to sign up with the team.
Gasol announced on his Twitter account about his decision, and sources told ESPN that the two-time NBA champion will have to sign directly with the Bulls because discussions between Chicago and the LA Clippers on a sign-and-trade deal broke down. The Bulls don't have enough salary cap space to sign the four-time All Star so it would have to make some roster moves to free cap space and add Gasol.
The most likely move would be for the Bulls to amnesty forward Carlos Boozer, removing the $16.8 million from their salary cap. The Bulls would have to do so until Wednesday.
Gasol is one of the best free agents on the market despite his age and history of injuries. Last year, he managed to put up 17.4 points and 9.7 rebounds for the Lakers despite clashing with former head coach Mike D'Antoni. He could form a Twin Tower combination with reigning Defensive Player of the Year Joakim Noah, and provide a reliable inside presence on offense for the Bulls. He could start at power forward for the Bulls, with Taj Gibson coming off the bench.
Aside from the Bulls, the defending NBA champions San Antonio Spurs, Oklahoma City Thunder and Miami Heat pursued Gasol. He also had talks with his former team the Lakers, where he played the past six seasons and helped win two titles.
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