Report: Bulls target Steve Nash, Jason Kidd to replace Derrick Rose

The Chicago Bulls' top two targets in free agency could be these two point guards — Steve Nash and Jason Kidd. (Danny Bollinger/Getty Images)

Heading into the offseason after a disappointing first-round NBA playoff exit, the Chicago Bulls will reportedly target two future Hall-of-Fame point guards in free agency.

Comcast SportsNet Chicago reports that the Bulls will look to go after free agents Steve Nash and Jason Kidd to replace Derrick Rose at point guard for at least part of next season. From the report:

While the front office may seek out minimum-salary veterans at several positions, including point guard, a source tells CSNChicago.com that the Bulls will take a run at future Hall of Famers Steve Nash and Jason Kidd in free agency.

Rose could be out all of next season following a brutal combination of tears in his left ACL and meniscus cartilage he suffered during the Bulls' first-round playoff loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. The Bulls' team physician said Rose will likely require at least an eight-month recovery following the injury, meaning the earliest he could return would be mid-January or February.

In Rose's absence after Game 1 of the Bulls' playoff series, C.J. Watson started at point guard. He averaged 7.3 points and 5.5 assists per game in the series. The Bulls have until July 10 to pick up his 2012-13 option. His option is only for $3.2 million, but the Bulls could use that money to go after Nash or Kidd.

The Bulls' thinking, according to the CSN Chicago report, is that they could lure Nash or Kidd with the chance to win a championship in Chicago, even at somewhat less of a salary.