"It's impossible to definitively predict the Bulls' salary cap situation for next summer, but one very important moving part is John Salmons' player option.

Should Salmons exercise his $6.7 million option, the speculation is the Bulls wouldn't be able to offer a maximum contract to any of the big names in the most decorated free agent class in NBA history.

That isn't entirely accurate. But if Salmons opts in, achieving that optimum financial flexibility becomes more difficult and might involve renouncing the rights to restricted free agent Tyrus Thomas.

"I didn't even know my situation had that big an impact and don't look at the numbers like that," Salmons said.

This marked the first time Salmons has spoken publicly about his decision-making process.

"I'm happy here," Salmons said. "My agent and I will sit down after the season and talk and see what the reality of the market is and pray on it. ... I don't have any pressure and I don't have to have a great season to opt out. I have another year if I want it.""