The Chicago Bulls are reportedly holding firm on their asking price for veteran center Nikola Vucevic. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Bulls are seeking a first-round pick in exchange for the former All-Star.
Vucevic, who is in the second year of a three-year, $60 million contract, is having an impressive season. The 34-year-old is averaging 20.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in 32.3 minutes per game, providing a strong presence in the paint for Chicago.
The Golden State Warriors have been a prominent suitor for Vucevic, with the team reportedly showing interest for weeks. However, the Warriors, currently mired in a 10-20 slump and sitting 11th in the Western Conference, have yet to meet the Bulls’ asking price.
Despite their struggles this season, the Warriors are cautious about trading away a first-round pick, preferring to offer second-round picks instead. As the trade deadline approaches, the Bulls will need to decide whether to accept less than their asking price or hold on to Vucevic and risk him walking in free agency.
For the Bulls, currently sitting 10th in the Eastern Conference with a 20-27 record, the situation with Vucevic is critical. The team will likely need to make a move soon to either strengthen their roster for a playoff push or secure assets for the future.
