First there was a trade for Nikola Mirotic. Then there wasn't And now there is again?
According to a report from ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Bulls and Pelicans have agreed to a trade that would send Mirotic to New Orleans.
Much like the trade that was reported Tuesday, the Bulls look set to receive former Bulls big man Omer Asik and a future first-round draft pick. What's new is the Pelicans' supposed willingness to pick up Mirotic's $12.5 million option for the 2018-19 season.
The Tribune's KC Johnson added some more details, including that the Bulls will be sending a second-round draft pick to New Orleans in the deal.
But things aren't done, apparently.
Including Chicago native Tony Allen.
And Jameer Nelson.
Who might not be Bulls for long.
It's been a weird season for Mirotic, who was sidelined with facial fractures right before the season started when teammate Bobby Portis punched him in the face. Mirotic made his season debut in December and caught fire, helping the Bulls win seven straight games and 10 of 12 immediately following his return. In 25 games, Mirotic has averaged 16.8 points and 6.4 rebounds, both career highs.
Asik, who spent his first two NBA seasons with the Bulls, makes a lot of money but can be bought out of his contract ahead of the 2019-20 season. He's played in just 14 games with the Pelicans this season, averaging 1.3 points and 2.6 rebounds.