Joakim Noah is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, and it sounds like the Chicago Bulls might soon need to find a replacement for the veteran big man.
Noah told teammates in recent weeks that he’s done with the organization once free agency begins, a Bulls player told the Chicago Sun-Times. The player added that Noah “has no trust in the front office getting this in the right direction.”
Perhaps this is Noah’s way of putting the squeeze on Chicago. A league source told ESPN.com that Noah, his representatives and the Bulls front office continue to have a “positive dialogue” about a new contract despite the report that the 31-year-old is ready to leave the organization. Those close to Noah remain hopeful he’ll be able to work out an agreement to stay in Chicago long term, according to ESPN.com.
It sure sounds like there’s something going on behind closed doors, though. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, there’s a notion that multiple players don’t trust Bulls general manager Gar Forman, with Noah reportedly leading the charge.
Essentially, we’re left wondering who to believe. But the fact is Noah will be free to sign anywhere this summer unless the sides come to an agreement soon. And that’s big news when talking about a two-time All-Star with a knack for impacting the game on both ends of the floor, even if Noah is coming off the worst season of his nine-year NBA career.
The Bulls went 42-40 this season and failed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time in eight years.
Thumbnail photo via Jennifer Stewart/USA TODAY Sports Images
