Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic, who has been linked to several teams, including the Golden State Warriors, may remain with the Bulls through the trade deadline. According to Joe Cowley of Chicago Sun-Times, trade discussions involving Vucevic have hit a roadblock, leaving the Bulls with no immediate plans to move him.
Sources close to the situation reveal that two potential trade deals for Vucevic fell apart on Tuesday, forcing Chicago’s front office to reevaluate their options. “The situation remains fluid,” one source said. “But as of game time Tuesday against the Heat, there was no momentum for a deal to be done and no new talks with another team.”
Vucevic, 34, is in the second year of a three-year, $60 million contract. The skilled big man has been a consistent contributor for the Bulls, averaging 19.7 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 32.3 minutes per game. His productivity makes him one of the most desirable centers potentially available at the trade deadline.
While the Warriors have expressed interest in upgrading their frontcourt, Vucevic has not been their primary target. Internal debates within the Warriors organization focus on whether he would be a good fit for their system and if he can address their frontcourt needs.
For Chicago, sitting 10th in the Eastern Conference at 22-29, the decision regarding Vucevic’s future could determine the team’s direction for the remainder of the season. The Bulls must decide whether to continue chasing a playoff spot or shift toward acquiring assets for a rebuild. Vucevic’s contract situation could play a key role in that decision.
If Vucevic stays through the trade deadline, it’s likely he will be shopped again in the summer, especially if the Bulls are unable to secure a playoff berth. The center’s expiring deal next year could give Chicago more flexibility in the offseason.
