I was perusing the comments on a story on NBA.com and I came across one made by a Bulls fan of the acquiring of Vince Carter. Now this to me sounded funny, as we’ve witnessed the sudden fall from grace that Carter was perched on, and Suns fans even more so. But the next comment, also by a Bulls fan, struck me even more. The commenter suggested the acquiring of Jason Richardson to the Bulls.

That’s when I realized that perhaps signing Richardson would be better for the Magic than letting him walk.

Hear me out; if we sign him we give this team another shot to gel, with two guards who have been accustomed to higher tempo offensive teams, in Arenas and Richardson. Also this would allow for a Jameer Nelson trade, which I believe, in conjunction with SVG loosening the offensive reigns, would produce an even more exciting and possibly efficient offensive team. (Let’s face it the fast break is one of the most effective plays in basketball, why give the defense a chance to set up.)

Second, we can control where he goes if we in the end we do decide to not retain him. Jason on the Bulls is not what the Magic want to see, and let’s face it, Richardson still has value in this league, he’s a good shooter, he can score, and he’s still athletic. The only spoiling mark on his tenure in the NBA has been his time with the Magic, albeit short, Richardson is a producer, and very good one in different system.

Third, we do not want him to pair up with an Eastern Conference rival, especially not one with a PG like Rose and a SF like Deng. You don’t want to gift wrap the missiles that can beat your missile defense system. Nor do you leave it to be bargained for on the open market where your enemy has the shot to pick him up.

I’ m not saying the Bulls would be able to offer him any more than MLE (if that’s still around) but if your J-Rich, and you seriously want to win a Championship, you’re looking at the Bulls and the Heat, and the Bulls give you the most playing time as well as the chance to be the second fiddle.

As a Magic fan I say we re-sign J-Rich, even if it is a sign and trade (with another team besides Chicago), to keep our options open and to avoid the catastrophe of Richardson going to the Bulls.

Your thoughts?