If Jamal Crawford plays this season the way he did Sunday, that new contract he's seeking could be worth the wait.

And Crawford realizes he's probably going to have to wait longer than he wanted.

Before dropping a triple-double in Jalen Rose's charity all-star game at the United Center, Crawford said he's not upset about the likelihood his contract won't be extended this year. Crawford, 23, who is entering his fourth season, was hoping to sign an extension, but operations chief John Paxson said he's inclined to be patient and perhaps wait until next year.

''We want something that's fair to both sides,'' Crawford said. ''If it doesn't work out this summer, no problem.

''A lot of guys don't get extended after their third year.''

The window to extend contracts for first-rounders from the Class of 2000 closes Oct. 29, and it's possible none will receive a major extension. Even the New Jersey Nets' Kenyon Martin, who was the first overall pick and has helped lead his team to the last two NBA Finals, isn't likely to get the extension he wants.

Without an extension, Crawford will become a restricted free agent next season, meaning the Bulls could match any offer. Restricted free agency worked out for Gilbert Arenas, who recently signed a six-year, $65 million deal with the Washington Wizards.

''I'm sure there will be offers from other teams,'' Crawford said, "but my first priority is to stay here.