The only way Pau Gasol-to-the-Bulls speculation makes sense is if the Lakers accept Carlos Boozer and his contract, which will pay him between $15 and $17 million over the next three seasons. The Lakers aren't interested, according to a source with knowledge of the situation, making trade speculation moot.

The Bulls are unwilling to include a package of players in any trade, especially if that package includes Joakim Noah. The Bulls interest in Gasol involves pairing him with Noah in an attempt to use their size advantage against the Heat and other playoff rivals. Including Noah in a trade makes little sense for the Bulls and therefore no deal is imminent despite persistent reports.

While the Bulls are keeping the lines of communication open and fielding calls, multiple sources said the team is unlikely to make a deal before Thursday's 2 p.m. deadline.

The Bulls value their depth, which has ridden to the rescue time and again during their injury-plagued season. It's an advantage they want to maintain.