By David Schuster-

BERTO CENTER (CBS) Richard “Rip” Hamilton could be a member of the Bulls shortly. Hamilton has already been officially released by the Pistons and is in the process of going through waivers. If, or when, he passes through the waivers, the Bulls will be ready with a two-year contract for the veteran shooting guard.

For the first time Bulls coach Tom Thibideau expressed his thoughts on Hamilton: “He’s been a talented player in the league for a long time. He’s got great experience and I know when we have played against him he has been tough to guard.”

Carlos Boozer then added: “He’s a good friend of mine. He’s always been a great competitor and a winner his whole career and he’d be a great addition to our team. I’ve always admired his game”.

Hamilton, a three-time all star, could be here at the Berto Center as soon as Wednesday.