Caron Butler has been working out in Chicago this offseason and is fully rehabilitated from surgery on his right knee.
As the NBA free-agency period begins the test-the-waters mode, Butler’s interest in the Bulls is legitimate, according to league sources. One source close to Butler said that Butler said early Thursday morning, “I hope I don’t have to leave.”
Interest in Butler is widespread. The Spurs, Heat, Clippers and Bulls are among the teams that expressed serious interest in him on Wednesday, the first day teams could contact agents. It’s possible the Mavericks will enter the arena in an attempt to re-sign him too.
The Bulls cast a wide net on the first day of free agency, however, Butler would fit the need to upgrade the wing position. It would likely take the full midlevel exception of $5 million to sign Butler. Keith Bogans might then return in a backup role.
“Keith had a great year for us,” coach Tom Thibodeau said Thursday. “The things he brought to our team are exactly the things he would bring. He played his role perfectly.”
