Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah is free to sign with any team when free agency starts on July 1. However, the Bulls front office is keen on not letting him leave this summer and the team is prepared to re-sign him to a new deal.
Noah has played his entire career in Chicago since being picked 9th overall in the 2007 NBA Draft. He is known for his leadership, defense and energy on the court.
Nonetheless, his play has been on the decline for the past two seasons due to a variety of injuries. He is just two years removed from being a two-time All-Star and the 2014 Defensive Player of the Year.
The 31-year-old suffered two separate injuries to his left shoulder this season with the second one requiring surgery. He only played in a total of 29 games while averaging just 4.3 points, 8.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.0 block for the season. He was asked after shoulder surgery if he wants to stay with the Bulls.
"This is all I know. I've been here nine years. I've been injured before. Maybe not in this position and situation but I'm looking forward to being around the guys," Noah said in an interview with the Chicago Tribune.
In his absence, the Bulls missed the playoffs for the first time since the 2008-09 season. The team was marred by reported chemistry problems, inconsistencies and struggles on head coach Fred Hoiberg's offense.
According to Mike McGraw of the Daily Herald, some within the organization believe that Noah's absence contributed to the struggles of the team especially after the All-Star break. The team has made re-signing the two-time All-Star a priority this offseason.
McGraw also noted in his report that Noah could sign with the Oklahoma City Thunder season because of head coach Billy Donovan. Noah played under Donovan for three seasons and helped the Florida Gators win two straight NCAA championships.
The Bulls will have money to re-sign the French international especially with Pau Gasol opting out of his player option. There is also a possibility that Chicago will go after Noah's former Florida teammates Al Horford in free agency and Corey Brewer via trade.
Check out the video below for Noah's career highlights.