Bulls Rumors: Chicago to Tap Danny Granger as Luol Deng’s Replacement

Former All-Star small forward Danny Granger is now a free-agent after he reached a buyout agreement with the Philadelphia 76ers, a source close to the situation reported on Wednesday.

Granger, who is traded by the Indiana Pacers to the Sixers in last week's anti-climatic trade deadline, decided to buy out from the final year of his contract worth $14 million for a chance to join a legit championship contender.

"The Philadelphia 76ers and forward Danny Granger reached agreement on a buyout Wednesday that will allow Granger to sign with another team and be eligible for the postseason.

Granger will now choose between elite playoff teams looking to add the best possible player available. According to sources, Granger is looking at five teams: the Clippers, Rockets, Bulls, Heat and Spurs. He is expected to make his decision by Friday," Bleacher Report stated.

Sixers General Manager Sam Hinkie confirmed their buyout agreement with Granger after releasing a press release about their decision on the small forward.

"Following the completion of the trade on Thursday night, Danny traveled to Philadelphia and we had an opportunity to meet with him here. These were in addition to the open lines of communication with his agent Aaron Mintz and CAA while we worked through the next steps.

Given Danny's future goals and his desire to pursue them, we worked to fulfill his requests and have come to a resolution that we feel is mutually beneficial to both Danny and our organization.

We wish Danny the best in the next phase of his career," the Sixers' press release.

Five Team Race for Danny

Granger is averaging 8.3 points and 3.6 rebounds per game this season, but he can be a solid contributor off the bench when healthy. The Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Clippers expressed their desire to get Granger's service.

Clippers head coach Doc Rivers already confirmed the team's interest in Granger. On the other hand, the defending champion is likely out of equation as they are expected to sign veteran Caron Butler, who will be bought out of his contract with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Bullish Granger

The Bulls are surprising playoff contender this season despite the injury to Derrick Rose and departure of All-Star small forward Luol Deng via trade. Their unexpected rise was a product of good team defense and big production from big men Joakim Noah and Taj Gibson.

However, the Bulls could get better if they can sign a player like Granger, who can create his own shots at the wing. Mike Dunleavy has made an outstanding job as the team's starting small forward, but Granger can bring different things on the table.

His penetration and ability to knock down jumpers will surely make Chicago a team to be reckoned with in the postseason, even without D-Rose