Bulls announce Robinson signing

Veteran essentially replaces John Lucas III

By Teddy Greenstein, Chicago Tribune reporter

7:47 p.m. CDT, July 31, 2012

The Bulls just got a little more interesting. On Tuesday they announced the signing of Nate Robinson, the seven-year vet known for his leaping ability and unfiltered, free-flowing ways with the media.

Robinson essentially replaces John Lucas III (who signed with Toronto), joining a Bulls backcourt with Kirk Hinrich, Richard Hamilton, Marquis Teague, swingmen Jimmy Butler and Marco Belinelli and the on-the-mend Derrick Rose.

The Bulls also have added forward Vladimir Radmanovic and center Nazr Mohammed this summer.

The well-traveled Robinson appeared in 51 games (nine starts) for Golden State last season, averaging 11.2 points, 4.5 assists and 1.2 steals in 23.4 minutes. The 28-year-old native of Seattle shot .424 from the field, .365 from downtown and .832 from the foul line.

Despite his 5-foot-9 frame, Robinson is a three-time NBA slam dunk champion.

tgreenstein@tribune.com