The Bulls aren?t expected to offer Toni Kukoc a contract before training camp opens Oct. 3, but the veteran forward plans to stay ready and available in case general manager John Paxson changes his mind at a later date.

Kukoc, who resides in Highland Park, worked out at the Berto Center as recently as last week, joining Bulls players for informal pickup games.

?Absolutely, he?s not retired,? said Herb Rudoy, Kukoc?s Chicago-based agent. ?Pax told him to wait it out. We?re just waiting. There?s no timetable for this at all. Right now, his plan is to stay in shape.?

Rudoy said NBA teams call constantly asking if Kukoc, 38, is ready for another season. But Kukoc only wants to play for the Bulls or Milwaukee in order to stay close to his family.