Auburn Hills— Ben Wallace predicted former teammate Richard Hamilton would quickly find a landing spot after being bought out by the Pistons.
And Hamilton won't have to go far down Interstate 94 to find it, as he will sign with the Chicago Bulls. It's been reported he would sign a two-year deal worth $10 million.
Pistons president Joe Dumars wouldn't confirm the amount, but Hamilton's buyout is expected to be in the neighborhood of $8 million of the near $20 he would've been paid if he remained a Piston — or if the team used the amnesty clause.
"It's just a verbal agreement right now, so nothing's official," Dumars said. "Once it's official, I can get into detail about why buyout instead of amnesty."
The salary-cap hit will be split evenly over the next two years, despite the Pistons owing him more guaranteed money this year than next year. Hamilton would've been paid a pro-rated version of $12.6 million and had 75 percent of the same amount guaranteed for next year.
Hamilton, 33, averaged 14.1 points last year, his lowest in nine seasons in Detroit since being traded for Jerry Stackhouse in 2002.
Hamilton had seemingly been disgruntled since the trade of Chauncey Billups in November 2008, despite signing an extension to stay in Detroit shortly thereafter. He had well-publicized issues with coaches John Kuester and Michael Curry, and the organization attempted to move Hamilton at last year's trade deadline.
Hamilton balked at a buyout that's eerily similar to the money he will make as a member of the Bulls. In Chicago, he will likely be the fourth option on offense, after MVP Derrick Rose, Carlos Boozer and Luol Deng.
The Bulls have been searching for a shooting guard to take pressure off Rose, Hamilton clearly wanted out and the Pistons wanted a fresh start after the drama of the last two season. All three parties got their wish.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Richard Hamilton bought out for $8 million
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