Nikola Vucevic has made his stance clear on his NBA future, pushing back against speculation about a possible buyout or departure from the Chicago Bulls.
Speaking with Basket USA, the veteran center explained that Bulls general manager Marc Eversley personally reassured him that the rumors were false. “A week ago…the Bulls GM, who had called me after all the rumors, confirmed that nothing was true and that everything we had discussed after the season still stood,” Vucevic said.
The 34-year-old big man added that he expects to start the season in Chicago. “Yes, I have almost no doubt. That’s the mindset I’m preparing with. After that, we’ll see—I don’t know what will happen,” he told the outlet.
Speculation grew earlier this summer that Chicago might explore a buyout, but NBC Sports Chicago’s K.C. Johnson reported that such a scenario is “not happening.” He emphasized that Vucevic remains in the Bulls’ short-term plans and is coming off what he described as his “best season as a Bull.”
Vucevic averaged 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and shot 40.2% from three-point range during the 2024–25 season. His shooting efficiency and interior presence helped Chicago stay competitive despite missing the playoffs.
Trade talks did surface at the 2025 deadline, with the Golden State Warriors showing interest in acquiring him. However, no deal materialized, and Chicago decided to keep him through the end of the year.
Johnson noted that the Bulls could revisit the idea of moving Vucevic closer to the February 2026 trade deadline. His expiring $60 million contract could appeal to teams seeking frontcourt depth or salary flexibility.
Meanwhile, EuroLeague powers such as Crvena Zvezda and Panathinaikos have reportedly monitored his situation. Still, a move overseas appears unlikely in the immediate future, as Vucevic reiterated his desire to remain in the NBA.
NBA insider Marc Stein added that there is still a market for the two-time All-Star, pointing to his shooting range, durability, and veteran experience as traits that playoff contenders value.
Vucevic has not placed a timeline on retirement but said he feels physically strong and mentally motivated. Entering the final year of his deal, he emphasized that he wants to keep playing “a few good years” as long as he maintains a meaningful role.
