While Nikola Mirotic is widely expected to be traded before the deadline, the Chicago Bulls are remaining patient with the process.

Chicago has been seeking a first round pick in exchange for Mirotic.

Mirotic must waive his no-trade clause in order to be dealt, but he still prefers a trade following his preseason fight with Bobby Portis.

Mirotic signed a two-year, $27 million deal with the Bulls in restricted free agency.

Fred Hoiberg praised Mirotic for his attitude as trade talk swirls around him.

“Niko has been awesome throughout this process,” Hoiberg said. “And it’s not easy when your name is getting thrown out there as much as his is. A couple of our other guys, as well.”