The Captain is Locked Up

As you're going to learn soon, we're pretty excited about the Bulls season starting tonight. You know what got us even more excited though?

Kirk Hinrich signed a new 5-year deal with the Bulls last night.

"League sources said the deal is worth $47.5 million and starts in the 2007-08 season at roughly $7.8 million. The deal will pay Hinrich approximately $11.42 million during its final season in 2011-2012."

It was the Bulls' final offer before last night's 11:59 PM league deal deadline. Had the two sides not been able to reach an agreement, Hinrich would have become a restricted free agent at season's end.

Maybe it was just love of playing in Chicago or maybe it was the fact that his most likely destination next season would have been Milwaukee. Whatever the reason, we're happy with it.

I'm reeeeeeeich beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeitch!

Hinrich's an invaluable asset to this team both on the court and off. He's a leader, and basically coach Scott Skiles' doppelganger on the court.

The deal works out well for Hinrich also in the fact that when the contract expires, he'll only be 31, and have another contract left in him before retiring.