Mike Dunleavy Returns to Chicago on Three-Year Deal

(Photo : Reuters)

(Photo : Reuters)

Free agent Mike Dunleavy has agreed to return with the Chicago Bulls, signing a three-year, $14.4 million dollar deal. Dunleavy’s deal includes a partial guarantee on the third year. The Bulls cannot officially sign him until July 9th, when the league moratorium ends.

Dunleavy is currently 34-years-old, and this may very well be his last contract. The forward was drafted back in 2002 when he was selected third overall by the Warriors. He played there for five years before signing with Indiana. He spent another five years with the Pacers and two with the Milwaukee Bucks before his tenure with the Bulls.

Dunleavy has expressed interest in remaining in Chicago, as he just finished his second year there. He played both seasons under ex-head coach Tom Thibedeau.

Back in 2013, Dunleavy signed a two year, $6 million dollar contract; and for what he brought, the Bulls got a bargain. Last season he averaged nine points and four rebounds per game, starting in every game he played in.

When asked about his deal, he said,

“I’m thrilled to be back,” Dunleavy said. “It’s a really fair deal. I’m looking forward to playing for [new head coach Fred Hoiberg] and [I] love our team.”

Many reports surfaced that LeBron James was pushing the Cleveland front office to pursue Dunleavy, but the deal didn’t work out.

Jimmy Butler was the Bulls top priority for the offseason with Dunleavy a close second. Butler is considered one of the top free agents of this season, and will most likely receive a max deal.

Dunleavy was a very reliable player for the Bulls, and his signing is a great first step for Chicago’s offseason.