Chicago Bulls sharpshooting forward Nikola Mirotic is one of the key targets of this NBA trade deadline, and one that was nearly snatched by the New Orleans Pelicans in a reported trade until both teams hit a snag in the deal, dissolving the pact at hand.

Mirotic was asked about his feelings after being so close to heading to the Big Easy this week.

“It was an option with New Orleans,” Mirotic said, according to Vincent Goodwill of NBC Sports Chicago, who first reported the trade. “That’s all I heard. I said, ‘OK, you guys can think and see what’s the best for me.’ We’re going to make a decision, but we don’t have to rush to make a decision. This happened yesterday. It’s not even 24 hours. It’s nothing to do that fast.”

Mirotic started the year on the shelf after suffering facial fractures stemming from a preseason incident with fellow forward Bobby Portis during the last practice prior to the start of the regular season.

Ever since coming back, the 6-foot-10 stretch-four has rebounded with a career-high 16.8 points and shooting a blistering 42.9 percent from deep.

The marksman was very close to preparing to leave, but let things take its course, as the deal was scratched shortly after.

“That’s the only thing that popped into my head. I said, ‘OK, be calm. Wait. Do what they told you to do. Step off the court.’ I was doing some calls to my agent and my family. That’s all. The thing I want is the best for me and my future in the NBA. And I’m sure the Bulls are doing what’s the best for them too.”

Mirotic intends to play against the Portland Trail Blazers tonight unless given notice not to.