A source said the Bulls continued efforts to find a third team to make potential sign-and-trade possibilities work if Anthony were to have a change of heart and leave the Knicks. Otherwise, not much changed: The Bulls believe they made a strong impression on Anthony during their in-person pitch July 1 in Chicago.
And they know, with the Knicks’ five-year, $129 million on the table, they have to hope Anthony recognizes their ready-to-win roster and proven coach in Tom Thibodeau appeals to the forward’s desire to compete for championships sooner rather than later.
Using strictly salary-cap space and without parting with Taj Gibson, the Bulls can offer Anthony a four-year, $73 million deal. But sources said last week the Bulls conveyed to Anthony a sense they would make finances work if he picks them. That’s why the attempts to line up a third team were telling on Thursday.
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