The Bulls reportedly have made star forward Luol Deng untouchable in any Kobe Bryant deal, so the Lakers made it known they wouldn't agree to a deal unless the incoming package includes center Ben Wallace, a choice between guards Ben Gordon and Kirk Hinrich, and others.
But when the Chicago Tribune reported that Bryant wants to play with Wallace, it meant the Bulls would have to change the package to perhaps include Tyrus Thomas or Joakim Noah, forward Andres Nocioni and a first-round pick.
The Lakers are reportedly very interested in Nocioni, a former Argentine star who averaged 14.1 points and 5.7 rebounds for Chicago last season. But by rule, he can't be traded until after Dec. 15.
There also has been speculation in Chicago that the Bulls want to find out how good this team will be before making a major trade.