Chicago Bulls veteran center Nikola Vucevic has been the subject of offseason speculation, but a local insider does not see a trade materializing before his contract expires.
NBC Sports Chicago’s K.C. Johnson said on Stacey King’s Gimme The Hot Sauce Podcast he believes the two-time All-Star is unlikely to be moved. “To me, Vooch is—you never have to worry about him. He is the ultimate professional and really, to me, can fit in any style of play because he’s just so skilled and so smart,” Johnson explained, via HoopsHype.
The Bulls insider pointed to the financial side as the main factor limiting trade possibilities. “He’s an expiring contract now—and what team is going to give up a lot, when they can probably sign him for pretty cheap on the open market next season, as a veteran piece for a winning team?” Johnson added.
Vucevic, 34, is entering the final season of a three-year, $60 million deal he signed in 2023. He averaged 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and shot 40.2% from three-point range during the 2024–25 season, which Johnson described as his “best season as a Bull.”
Trade rumors around Vucevic circulated at last year’s deadline, with the Golden State Warriors among the teams reportedly showing interest. Ultimately, Chicago kept him, with general manager Marc Eversley assuring the center that he remained part of the franchise’s plans.
Vucevic himself dismissed speculation of a buyout earlier this summer. Speaking with Basket USA, he confirmed that Eversley directly reassured him the rumors were false and that he was expected to begin the season in Chicago.
Johnson suggested that while a midseason trade in 2026 remains a possibility, the more likely outcome is Vucevic finishing the year with the Bulls before hitting free agency. “I think Vooch will get his wish eventually. I just don’t think it’ll happen this year,” he said.
The expectation is that the veteran big man could sign a smaller deal in 2026–27 with a title contender seeking frontcourt depth. Johnson noted that his skill set—floor spacing, rebounding, and high basketball IQ—makes him a strong fit for any playoff-caliber roster.
Interest from EuroLeague clubs such as Crvena Zvezda and Panathinaikos has also been reported, but Vucevic has made it clear he intends to remain in the NBA. He has stated that he still feels physically strong and wants to play “a few good years” if given a meaningful role.
