Bulls Rumors: Derrick Rose's Contract Extension Will Screw Chicago's SG Search

The Chicago Bulls need a shooting guard, but they have an even more pressing need to extend Derrick Rose’s contract.

With a reported $64 million committed to 13 players for the coming season, and the salary cap at a reported $58 million, the Bulls are going to have to figure out a way to find a free agent two guard without spending more than the mid-level exception.

Rose is going to be due for a max-contract next year because of the new CBA and his deal will be worth around $17.4 million. That leaves them with barely any long-term financial flexibility.

Chicago’s best bet is to acquire a player via an exception or for the veterans minimum on a one-year deal.

This usually wouldn’t be allowed for them to sign anyone of note in years past, but the new amnesty clause in the CBA affords the right for teams to pay a player’s salary and then release them without it counting against their cap.

This means that a ton of formerly overpriced veterans will be looking for a team.

Does that mean the Bulls will get what they need to push them over the edge?

Unless you think the team is someone like a Vince Carter or Rip Hamilton away from beating the Heat in the East, they probably won't be able to acquire the right two-guard to fill that gaping hole in the roster.

Chicago needs a SG that can defend, drive to the lane and shoot the open three. They are looking for an all-around player to soak up the minutes they currently split between Keith Bogans, Kyle Korver and Ronnie Brewer, each possessing a solid skill but don’t have the full-package they need.

The most intriguing option I see right now for them is Brandon Roy.

The Trail Blazers star is owed $82 million over the next four years but has been constantly plagued by injury. If they can't land Roy, the team isn't going to find a worthy SG on the market.

If he is cut, and he very well could be as Portland looks for a fresh start, Chicago would get another crack at a player they coveted in the 2006 draft.

He would be the perfect fit as a second ball-handler, scorer and distributor on a team that doesn’t need him to be a star.

Coach Tom Thibodeau could also limit his minutes and make sure his knees take less wear and tear over the course of the season.

It would be a win-win signing for both parties as Roy has already made enough money to retire on and would have the best chance of winning a championship on a team that needs the skill set he possesses.

While the Bulls aren't expected to exercise the amnesty clause on any of their current players, if they feel they can get Roy, cutting Kyle Korver ($10 million over the next two seasons) or Ronnie Brewer ($9 million over the next two years) wouldn't be a terrible idea.

Expect Chicago to make a huge run at Roy if he is released. If they don't get a chance or he signs elsewhere, the Bulls are going to be screwed once again this season and in the future by the play from their shooting guard position.