Several teams have shown interest in claiming Chicago Bulls point guard C.J. Watson off waivers this week, according to Alex Kennedy of HoopsWorld. The Bulls recently decided to decline their 2012 option for Watson's services, placing the guard on waivers rather than guarantee his $3.7 million salary for next season.
According to Kennedy, teams can still claim Watson off waivers until 5 p.m. ET on Friday. If that happens, the team will presumably exercise Watson's option, which isn't particularly expensive for an effective point guard. Otherwise, Watson will become an unrestricted free agent, allowing him to negotiate with all 30 teams.
Last season, Watson averaged 9.7 points per game and 4.1 assists per game while appearing in 49 games, including 25 starts as Derrick Rose battled a variety of injuries. Over the past few years, he's become an increasingly perimeter-oriented player, and his efficiency has suffered as a result.
For more, stick with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Bulls, head over to Blog a Bull. For additional news, notes and analysis from around the NBA, visit SB Nation's NBA news hub.