Viktor Khryapa Wants to Leave the Chicago Bulls

There’s a new hurdle for the Chicago Bulls – one of their players actually wants to leave the team. Russian international Viktor Khryapa announced this week that he wants to take leave of the Chicago Bulls. It seems that Khryapa is not satisfied with his playing time, he’s looking for more time on the court and the Bulls just aren’t giving it to him. At a press-conference held prior to the European Championships start, Khryapa told reporters, “I have a running contract with Chicago and they are not going to trade me but I want to leave as I look to spend more time in action.” Although he wants to leave the Bulls, Khryapa has no desire to head back over to Europe; he simply wants to be traded within the NBA.

Khryapa, who was born in present-day Ukraine, was the 22nd overall selection in the 2004 NBA draft. He was picked up by the New Jersey Nets and subsequently traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. In 2006, he was traded to the Bulls, where he has remained for only a year. The 6’9”, 210 lb. forward is known for his competitive nature, quickness, and leaping ability. Although he lacks body weight and bulk, he is a good rebounder and noted shotblocker. Khryapa is currently playing for Russia’s national team, and says of his off-season time abroad, “As for the national side we are charged to achieve a good result at the championships in Spain. It is of course difficult to switch to European basketball but I wouldn’t say it is impossible.” It seems that this versatile player doesn’t think he’s getting the playing time he deserves, so it’s up to the Bulls to decide whether or not they want to lose him.

See if Khryapa is still wearing a Bulls jersey when you get your Chicago Bulls tickets at StubHub.com.