The Chicago Bulls finally amnestied Carlos Boozer. This opened up cap space to sign Nikola Mirotic. The Real Madrid star has signed with the Bulls for 3 years, and $17 million. Over 31 games played in the international Euroleague last year, Mirotic averaged 12.4 points per game. He also shot 50.6% from the field, and 81.1% from the line, while grabbing about 4-5 rebounds per game for Real Madrid. In the Spanish Liga ACB (which is ranked in the top 3 European basketball leagues), Mirotic played in 43 games for Real Madrid. He averaged about 11.6 points per game, while shooting 50.6% from the field and again grabbing about 4 or 5 rebounds per game. The Chicago Bulls have high expectations for Mirotic who can play as a stretch four by playing inside and stepping out on the perimeter. The 23 year old Spanish/ Montenegrin is also very excited about coming to the U.S. to play. Sunday he tweeted:
"I am very happy and excited to announce that next season I will be playing with the @chicagobulls. Today I fulfill a dream. #BullsNation"
Even though Mirotic has proven himself in Europe, he will likely not start right away. Taj Gibson will likely be the front-runner to start at power-forward for the Bulls.