Rajon Rondo looked his typically talkative self as he ran up and down the Advocate Center court before the NBA draft media accommodations took over Thursday night.
Will he still be practicing there after June 30?
The Bulls insist they've made no formal decision on whether to pick up Rondo's $13.4 million option or waive him for the mere $3 million guarantee by that deadline. But while the Bulls greatly value Rondo's talent and teaching and mentoring ability, they also know their young point guards like Kris Dunn and Cameron Payne need to play.
According to sources, one option being considered is waiving Rondo and trying to re-sign him at a lower salary. However, Rondo restored his standing with his professionalism and playoff performance and is expected to draw interest from teams like the Pelicans and Pacers in free agency. So that move would be a risk.
Another veteran whose future is set is Dwyane Wade. Sources said the Jimmy Butler trade has no bearing on his decision to pick up his $23.8 million option. ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported Wade already has signed the paperwork.
"You do need some veteran presence in the locker room and Dwyane is a pro. He's seen a lot," executive vice president John Paxson said. "Dwyane showed nothing but professionalism around our young guys last year, so I feel pretty good about that."
Wade could be a trade or buyout candidate come the February trade deadline.
