Tristan Thompson has reached a buyout with the Indiana Pacers, but contrary to expectations that the Los Angeles Lakers will pursue him, the veteran big man apparently already has a destination set.

Thompson has been heavily linked with the Lakers recently, with several NBA insiders claiming the Purple and Gold is a destination that makes sense if ever he ends up getting a buyout with the Pacers. However, as Indiana head coach Rick Carlisle confirmed that Thompson will be waived on Thursday, he also shared that the big man is going to Windy City to join the Chicago Bulls.

The Bulls could certainly use a big man, which was also a point of emphasis for them during the deadline. While Chicago missed out on getting a backup center, they are now getting what they wanted in the buyout market.

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Chicago makes a ton of sense for Thompson since he'll be joining a contender in the Bulls. There is also no doubt he could make an instant impact on the franchise given their current situation.

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As for the Lakers, it is understandable why Thompson would want to avoid them at this point in time. LeBron James and company are struggling to contend in the West, and their playoff chances remain small with the way they are playing.

With Thompson choosing the Bulls, though, at least the Lakers can shift their attention elsewhere to find a backup big.