J.J. Redick closer to becoming a Bull with Orlando signing Richardson

Orlando was in a mood to spend money on Monday, but it's still not clear if the Magic is willing to take the luxury-tax hit that would come with matching the Bulls' offer for shooting guard J.J. Redick.

The Magic signed former DePaul star Quentin Richardson to a deal believed to be worth $8 million for three years. Meanwhile, Orlando has until Friday to decide whether or not to keep Redick, who signed a three-year, $20 million offer sheet from the Bulls.

Playing in Miami last season, Richardson averaged 8.9 points, while shooting a career-high 39.7 percent from 3-point range.

The Magic is already well above the luxury-tax threshold. After signing Richardson, and Chris Duhon earlier this month, Orlando has roughly $83 million in salary commitments for next season without Redick.

The luxury tax kicks in at $70.3 million, so the Magic is facing a tax bill of $13 million that could grow to $20 million if it keeps Redick.

Orlando might see Richardson as a replacement for forward Matt Barnes, who opted out of next year's contract worth $1.6 million. Barnes angered Magic GM Otis Smith by complaining via Twitter message that he hadn't received an offer from Orlando, so he probably won't return.

The Magic still has Mickael Pietrus as another backup wing. He's signed for two more years at $5.3 million per season, a tough contract to move. It's possible Orlando views Redick as a replacement for Vince Carter, who is headed into the final year of his contract.

Other reports have the Bulls showing interest in Washington swingman Josh Howard and Lakers restricted free agent Adam Morrison. The Bulls are more focused on swingman Ronnie Brewer, guard Roger Mason and veteran center Brad Miller.

In theory, the 6-foot-7 Howard would be a great addition for the Bulls. He averaged 19.9 points and shot 45 percent from the field for Dallas in 2007-08. He missed 30 games with injuries the following season. Then in his fourth game after being traded to the Wizards last winter, he tore his ACL against the Bulls on Feb. 22 and may not be available when next season begins.

Whether Morrison, the No. 3 pick of the 2006 draft, can salvage his NBA career is anyone's guess. He played in just 31 games for the Lakers last season, averaging 2.4 points.

The Bulls will introduce newcomer Kyle Korver on Tuesday at the United Center.