Word broke Sunday morning that the Bulls have come to terms with Kirk Hinrich on a two-year deal, suggesting they have given up all hope for the 2012-2013 season.

“Yes, we let Kirk go a few seasons ago because we felt he was past his prime and no longer an effective guard at the NBA level,” said GM Gar Forman. “And that’s exactly why we’ve re-signed him now.”

Forman said this signing was actually done for the benefit of fans everywhere, so they have no illusions that the team thinks it can compete for a title next year.

“If we go out and find a more capable fill-in for Derrick while he rehabs his knee, what does that tell the fans?” asked Forman. “It says that we think we have a chance to compete next season and that’s just not true so why should we even bother?”

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