Bulls say Wade buyout must be 'advantageous' for team

It appears Dwyane Wade is going to be in the mix of a Chicago Bulls rebuilding project, at least for part of next season. The 35-year-old, who exercised his option with the team despite last week's trade of Jimmy Butler, is also now expected to be a leading buyout candidate down the stretch in 2017-18.

Be that as it may, president John Paxson said Tuesday that any buyout of Wade will need to be "advantageous" to the team, according to the Chicago Tribune's K.C. Johnson.

Paxson and general manager Gar Forman spoke at a news conference introducing three new Bulls: Butler trade returns Zach LaVine and Kris Dunn, and first-round draft pick Lauri Markkanen.

Wade's contract next year is worth $23.8 million, a handsome payday for a declining player who took a series of discounts from his previous team, the Miami Heat.

However, it's sensible to wonder how long Wade, who turns 36 in January, will want to be part of a younger lottery team - even one in his hometown. Should no takers be found on the pre-deadline trade market, a buyout from the Bulls would be logical, with LeBron James' Cleveland Cavaliers the most speculated landing spot.

With the Bulls going younger, another decision needs to be made on veteran point guard Rajon Rondo. Paxson said Tuesday that will decline the qualifying offer on Michael Carter-Williams, making him a free agent.