The Chicago Bulls are saying goodbye to a veteran piece as center Pau Gasol reportedly agreed to a two-year deal with the San Antonio Spurs that will give him more than $30 million.

This is not the first time Gasol considered the Spurs. In 2014, after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers, the Western Conference powerhouse was an option for him and the franchise expressed interest. But during that time, he decided to go with the Bulls instead. 

Gasol's run in Chicago went well in his first year with the team during the 2014-15 season. They made it to the playoffs in that campaign but fell to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second round. Last season, the 35-year-old again had an efficient outing and even participated in the All-Star Game as Jimmy Butler's replacement.

However, despite Gasol playing well, the Bulls failed to secure a playoff berth for the first time in eight seasons. They finished with a 42-40 record for the ninth spot in the Eastern Conference.

A failed campaign and the pursuit of a championship are perhaps the reason why Gasol declined the player option in his pact with Chicago to head to San Antonio. 

It is uncertain what Gasol's role will be with the Spurs, although there are rumors stating that franchise superstar Tim Duncan, 40, might opt for retirement. 

If Duncan finally leaves after 19 seasons, Gasol can take his place. The two-time National Basketball Association (NBA) champion is also a veteran but five years younger than Duncan, which is a positive for the Spurs. Along with this, the Spaniard also had far better numbers in the previous season than Duncan, whose production declined. 

Gasol and the other free agents can sign deals on July 7. Once it becomes official, the Spurs will again be top favorites to take the championship in the 2016-17 season.