Options exercised? Check. Team captains selected? Check.

In a move that’s not exactly stunning the basketball world, the Bulls have picked up contract options for Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah for the 2010-11 season. When a team can lock up two quality players for less than $9 million combined for one season — Rose will earn a tad over $5.5 million while Noah will receive about $3.1 million — it’s kind of a no-brainer.

On the other end of the spectrum, Tyrus Thomas hasn’t received a contract extension. The Bulls have until the start of the regular season to do it, but it probably isn’t going ot happen. Read into that what you will.

Meanwhile, the Bulls have elected Kirk Hinrich, Luol Deng and Lindsey Hunter as team captains. It’s not out-of-this world news, but I am mildly surprised that Derrick Rose wasn’t one of the captains. I mean, he is the team’s floor leader and future, right?

Anyway, here’s Captain Kirk’s feelings on the subject: “I try to take it seriously. (The job) is always different. You’ve got to know when to say things. You’ve got to always be trying to lead by example. We’ve got a lot of young guys; try to bring them a long as quickly as possible. Just try to set an example every day. For me, I try to set an example by playing hard, bringing energy, trying to play the right way. Just try to have a good feel for the team. I feel like I have a good relationship with all of the guys. It’s pretty much that simple.”