Richardson, Butler, Crawford among potential signees for Bulls

Jason Richardson, Caron Butler, Nick Young, Josh Howard, Jamal Crawford and other targets from a long list already know of the Bulls' interest because talks with agents were allowed since Wednesday. That's why plans for visits — either inviting players to Chicago or going to see them — won't be as elaborate as last year.

Butler is working out in Chicago, so his visit Monday will be easy. Players know the Bulls can offer the midlevel exception for four years starting at $5 million. Kurt Thomas is a strong candidate to return for a veteran's minimum deal.

The Bulls have indicated to some agents they will use the full midlevel exception. If that happens, picking up Keith Bogans' $1.73 million team option might be dicey. There are scenarios on the Bulls' board in which Bogans' salary fits into the structure and he is brought back, even in a reserve role.(...)
General manager Gar Forman said at the close of last season he'd like to add shooting and another player who can create his own shot to ease Rose's burden. Coach Tom Thibodeau fielded a question on the team's needs last week.

"You're always looking for guys who can create shots and break defenses down, particularly in the playoffs," he said. "But when you look at our roster, we have guys who can do that too. Hopefully that's something everyone has improved upon."