Chicago Bulls Rumors: Amnesty Clause Gives Options at Shooting Guard

The Chicago Bulls desperately need an upgrade at shooting guard and, thanks to the league's new amnesty clause, they will have several good options.

After being bounced in the Eastern Conference finals by Miami last season, it became apparent that Derrick Rose needs help on the perimeter. With no legitimate second option on the wing, LeBron and D-Wade were able to focus all their attention on frustrating Rose.

Keith Bogans and Ronnie Brewer are excellent defenders, but unless the Bulls pick up an offensive-minded 2-guard, they will fall to Miami year after year.

Luckily for Chicago, there will be plenty of quality shooting guards available in the coming weeks.

According to K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune, the Bulls will look to pick up a cheap veteran via the amnesty clause.

Here are some possible options.

Richard Hamilton

Hamilton would be a beautiful fit in Chicago. The 33-year-old has championship experience and the perfect skillset to pair with Rose.

He is a master at operating without the ball, fluidly moving off of screens and finding gaps in the defense. His shooting efficiency (42.9 percent on field goals, 38.2 percent on threes) would space the floor and give Rose much more room to penetrate.

Vince Carter

Johnson listed Carter as a possible option, but I think the Bulls should only pursue him if Hamilton isn't available.

He is undoubtedly a talented scorer (14 points per game last season) and could certainly solve Chicago's offensive woes.

Unfortunately, he lacks the physical and emotional toughness to play in Tom Thibodeau's system. Also, Chicago already has one injury prone starter in Carlos Boozer. They don't need another one.

Gilbert Arenas

ESPN's rumor mill lists Arenas as an option, but I think that would be a terrible mistake by Chicago.

Arenas can pour in points, but his ball-dominating and penetration style would clash with Rose. He's also horribly inefficient, hitting just 36.6 percent of his field goals and 29.7 percent of his threes last season.

Free Agents

Chicago can also go the traditional free agent route.

Jason Richardson would be a great fit, but may be too expensive for Chicago's liking. If he's willing to take a significant pay cut, Richardson would be an excellent addition.

Jamal Crawford would also be a major upgrade at shooting guard, but he is too similar to Rose. I don't think they would mesh well in the backcourt.

Restricted free agent Arron Afflalo might be the best option available. He is insanely efficient and would be a monster in Thibodeau's defense. Unfortunately, the Nuggets also recognize his value. They'll likely match any offer for him.