Multiple media outlets are reporting that the Chicago Bulls, Utah Jazz, and Portland Trail Blazers are discussing a possible trade that would send forward Carlos Boozer to the Bulls, guard Kirk Hinrich to the Blazers, and forward Tyrus Thomas to the Jazz.
According to ESPN senior NBA writers Marc Stein and Chad Ford, Boozer could possibly be a one-year fix in the 2009-10 season. Boozer’s $12.7 million contract comes off the books next summer, which would give the Bulls a chance to sign Chicagoan Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, or Amare Stoudemire, all names which have been linked as possible signees. Without the trade, the Bulls would have over $20 million off the books that summer.
As for the Jazz, moving Boozer would allow them to re-sign free agent forward Paul Millsap, who the Blazers have pondered giving an offer sheet to. Thomas, who many still consider a work-in-progress, would either give the Jazz depth at the power forward position or a potential starter if Millsap walks.
The Blazers get Hinrich, who would be expected to start next to All-Star guard Brandon Roy to form an outstanding backcourt. Blazers’ General Manager Kevin Pritchard is said to have been eyeing Hinrich for quite some time now, and who could blame him? Hinrich, a defensive juggernaut, is currently on the Bulls’ bench behind Rookie of the Year Derrick Rose. However, there is no doubt he is starting talent in the NBA.
More updates as this story develops.
