Deng Deal Done

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Jul 31, 2008 4:38PM

We’re somewhat hesitant to mention it given the Bulls' track record with “done deals" this summer, but the team and Luol Deng have agreed on a six-year, $71 million contract that will be officially announced this morning at a press conference at the Berto Center. With incentives, the deal can reach upwards of $80 million.

Having turned down a five-year, $57.5 million deal last off-season, Deng was a restricted free agent. He could have signed an offer sheet with another team that the Bulls would have been allowed to match, or agreed to a one-year offer with the Bulls and become a free agent after next season. There were also rumors of Deng contemplating the European route, but ultimately Deng wanted to remain with the Bulls, and the team views him as one of the cornerstones of its rebuilding.

With Deng signed, the Bulls can now turn their attention to Ben Gordon. Also a restricted free agent, he similarly turned down a contract extension prior to last season. With Kirk Hinrich early into his extension and the newly drafted Derrick Rose on the team, Gordon cannot expect to be lavished with the riches heaped upon Deng. Will he sign for a lot less money? Or will the Bulls end up moving the guard in a sign-and-trade deal? We think that's the most likely option.

AP Photo/Jerry Lai, File