重要，JW 迷要看 Williams-Bulls settlement near By K.C. Johnson Tribune staff reporter December 19, 2003, 10:36 PM CST Jay Williams will visit teammates for the first time since his June 19 motorcycle accident on Saturday as Bulls management and Williams' representatives negotiate a settlement that could end his playing career with the organization. Williams' accident caused severe injuries to his left knee ligaments and pelvic area, as well as nerve damage. He has been undergoing treatment and rehabilitation in Durham, N.C. The accident also violated a standard NBA player's contract, which prohibits motorcycle riding without team consent. The Bulls have been supportive of and patient with Williams, currently keeping his $3.7 million salary on their payroll. But talks with Williams' agent, Bill Duffy, are leading to a termination of his rookie contract, which originally called for $11.13 million through next season. An agreement is expected to be reached in the next month. "There are always two sides where you obviously feel really badly for Jay, and we still do," general manager John Paxson said. "But there comes an issue of us moving forward. There are issues of dollars and [luxury] tax. That part may sound insensitive, but that's more the reality for me than anything." Duffy, though praising the "compassion" shown by everyone from Paxson to Bulls Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, painted a more optimistic picture about Williams' future with the organization. But he acknowledged a settlement is imminent, meaning Williams would return only after a lengthy rehabilitation and at a reduced price. ......... But the Bulls, who are watching Kirk Hinrich play well at Williams' position, also are aware of the benefits of shedding Williams' contract. It could free a roster spot and enable them to sign a less-expensive player, helping the team payroll avoid league luxury tax ramifications. "There are still questions as to what the league will allow us to do, which we haven't gotten answers on," Paxson said. "That's why this is still going on." Williams will attend Saturday night's game against Cleveland at the United Center. ............ Bulls management has been working under the assumption Williams won't regain his speed and quickness that promised such a bright playing future. Williams is still walking with the aid of crutches and, according to Paxson, has yet to visit noted sports surgeon James Andrews. "We've always been told he has to be at 90 degrees [flexibility] to see Dr. Andrews, and he hasn't yet," Paxson said. "There are still some hurdles. The timing has been slower than I thought it would be." Williams continues to attack rehabilitation feverishly and faithfully, but the process will be lengthy. Williams recently met with former Duke and NBA star Bobby Hurley, who almost lost his life in an auto accident. Hurley advised Williams to take the necessary time to recover. If Williams makes good on his vow to return from his injuries, it's possible, albeit unlikely, he could sign at a reduced rate with the Bulls to repay their loyalty. "The delicacy they've demonstrated is exemplary of a professional organization," Duffy said. http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports/basketball/bulls/cs-031219bulls main,1,3238008.story?coll=cs-bulls-headlines --

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