Pau Gasol Contract: Latest News, Rumors and Speculation on Bulls Star's Future

Chicago Bulls center Pau Gasol is reportedly planning to exercise an opt-out clause in his contract next summer to become an unrestricted free agent.

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Gasol Currently Planning to Test Open Market

Thursday, Dec. 3

According to Vincent Goodwill of CSNChicago.com, Gasol stated after Chicago's victory over the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday it's "very likely" he'll opt-out of his deal at season's end. That's assuming he continues to play at a high level throughout the rest of the campaign.   

"As long as I keep playing like this," Gasol said. "I know I'll have some options."

Gasol is currently making a little under $7.5 million in the second season of a three-year contract and is only slated to see a minor uptick in base salary next season, according to Spotrac.com.

The 35-year-old five-time All-Star is having his minutes managed this season thanks to a deeper Chicago frontcourt than last season. That said, he's still averaging a double-double at 14.4 points and 10.8 rebounds in a shade under 30 minutes per contest.

It's not a surprise to see him considering going back into the open market. Given his age, he's running out of time to score another lucrative, relatively long-term deal. If he can have a strong season in Chicago, he should be able to cash in over the summer.

His ability to make an impact at both ends of the floor—he's also averaging two blocks per game—continues to make him a reliable post presence. It's a testament to his longevity as he gets prepared to play his 1,000th NBA game Saturday night against the Charlotte Hornets.

It's a little early to start thinking too much about free-agent options, though. The Bulls are only 16 games into the season and, if they can stay healthy, are a threat in the Eastern Conference. Gasol and the Chicago front office will have plenty of time to survey the situation once the campaign ends.