The Chicago Bulls remain active in their efforts to trade veteran center Nikola Vucevic, but progress has been slowed by their insistence on receiving a first-round pick in return.
Despite Vucevic’s impressive performance to begin the season, potential trade partners appear hesitant to meet Chicago’s asking price.
Vucevic has been a standout on offense, averaging 21 points per game while shooting an efficient 58.7% from the field, including an outstanding 47.4% from three-point range.
Alongside his scoring, he has contributed 9.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and nearly one block and one steal per game, demonstrating his versatility and value as a skilled offensive big man.
Financially, Vucevic is under contract for $20 million this season and $21.5 million next season, terms that some rival teams consider steep for a center who isn’t known for his defensive prowess as a rim protector.
Nevertheless, his exceptional offensive production to date may convince a team in need of scoring and rebounding to meet the Bulls’ demands ahead of the February 6 trade deadline.
Whether Chicago succeeds in finding a trade partner willing to part with a coveted first-round pick remains to be seen, but Vucevic’s strong start could prove instrumental in enticing the right deal.
Bulls Seeking First Round Pick For Nikola Vucevic https://t.co/UYmfpT4dLc
— RealGM (@RealGM) December 14, 2024
