Bulls Trade For Rodman Jordan, Pippen Ok Deal To Acquire Controversial Rebounder

Dennis Rodman, the flamboyant forward who led the NBA in rebounding the last four seasons but repeatedly exasperated San Antonio management, was traded Monday to the Chicago Bulls for center Will Perdue.

Bulls general manager Jerry Krause and coach Phil Jackson met with Rodman for 36 hours last weekend. Jackson said Krause left the ultimate decision up to him.

“It’s a decision that’s important to the franchise. We felt we had to weigh it out, think about it. Seriously, this is not a snap judgment,” Jackson said.

“I got to know a little about Dennis, that he’s overcome a lot of odds. He’s an awful strong individual and I’m confident he will take himself out of situations that have been tough for him his whole life.”

Rodman has had many disciplinary problems during his nine-year career in Detroit and San Antonio. He was suspended twice last season and given a leave of absence.

Rodman’s agent, Neil Draddy, said the player was excited by the trade.

“I think it’s a perfect fit,” Draddy said. “They need some work off the boards and the extra defense he will give them. … I think everything will work out just fine.”

The Bulls made the move with the approval of stars Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.

After obtaining Rodman, the Bulls renounced the rights to Pete Myers and Larry Krystkowiak.

Spurs general manager Gregg Popovich, speaking at a news conference in San Antonio, said it was difficult to find a team willing to trade for Rodman.

In acquiring Perdue, a 30-year-old, 7-foot part-time center and marginal player, San Antonio made it all too clear it simply intented on unloading Rodman.

Rodman, in the final year of his contract, will make $2.5 million this season. The Spurs are also to receive other unnamed considerations from the Bulls.

The 6-foot-8 Rodman, as usual, was the premier force under the boards last season, averaging 16.8 rebounds and 7.1 points in 49 games. But the 34-year-old forward, who is partial to multicolored hairdos, proved a constant irritant to the Spurs’ front office.

He’s extremely individualistic and has his own individual nature,” Jackson said. “He likes to have freedom and the expression that gives him. We think that’s OK as long as it stays within the confines of playing ball together.”