Fans could talk all they want about Gar Forman and John Paxson and the lack of free agents they attract, but they really outdid themselves with the Pau Gasol signing in summer of 2014. A little after one year since Pau Gasol joined the Chicago Bulls, it’s almost a no-brainer that he’s the biggest steal in Bulls franchise story in terms of productivity versus salary.
The 7’0 Spaniard had a rebirth in his career last season with the Bulls. Gasol had his best scoring season in five years and averaged career high in rebounds per game. Gasol also led the NBA in double-doubles with 54 and a trip to the Allstar game. Pau Gasol averaged 18.5 points per game and 11.8 rebounds per game for the Bulls last season including a career-high in points this season with 46 points against the Bucks.
Pau Gasol signed a three-year $22 million deal with the Bulls. Gasol’s annual salary is approximately $7 million, which is less than Taj Gibson’s $8 million off the bench. Gasol was also the least paid contract of any of the 2014 Allstars excluding players on their rookie deals. Even after winning two rings with the Lakers, Pau took a massive paycut.
Gasol, age 35, is clearly is the biggest steal in franchise history. He’s only the fifth Bulls Allstar since Michael Jordan and 12th Allstar in franchise history. The overview of Gasol from a distance last season was a two-time NBA champion earning less than a bench player but still made the Allstar team and led the NBA in double-doubles. A mouthful to read, but equally as enjoyable to watch.
