The Chicago Bulls waive Goran Dragic, a former all-star, on the last day players can be waived and still be eligible for the playoffs if they sign with another team.
According to sources, Goran Dragic and the veteran guard agreed to part ways, and the two parties have been talking about it ever since the Bulls signed Patrick Beverley in the buyout market. Prior to Beverley’s arrival, Goran Dragic’s role diminished, and he hasn’t played since the All-Star break on February 13 as he treated a not-so-serious knee injury.
The Bulls, who are approximately $1.2 million short of the luxury tax, gain a roster spot thanks to the move. This means that they could sign a player to a prorated minimum contract for the remainder of the season and still avoid paying the luxury tax if they find the right fit.
However, there are currently no plans to add to the buyout market because the options are limited at this point. Goran Dragic was let go so that he could try to sign with another team and be eligible for the playoffs, not specifically to make a signing.
Some of the big men the team has available are Stanley Johnson, Serge Ibaka, and Juancho Hernangomez. The team currently uses power forward Alex Caruso as its starting power forward. Even if the Bulls were to pursue a signing, a 15th man’s role would be limited due to the Bulls’ desire to play Patrick Williams heavily off the bench at power forward.
Goran Dragic is hoping to attract interest from a playoff-caliber team if he clears waivers, as he did not accompany the Bulls on their two-game trip that begins on Tuesday in Toronto. Before they shifted and added big men with Meyers Leonard and Kevin Love, respectively, in the buyout market, the Milwaukee Bucks and Miami Heat were said to have at least some interest in Goran Dragic.
Last offseason, the Bulls made two moves in free agency, Goran Dragic and Andre Drummond. Goran had a strong start to the season before he slowed down and saw his minutes decrease. Over 51 games, he played 15.4 minutes and averaged 6.4 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists.
