The Bulls Might Be Ready to Move Nikola Vucevic Again — But It’s Not Easy.

The Chicago Bulls find themselves at another crossroads, and once again, Nikola Vučević’s name is surfacing in trade discussions. After a disappointing 2024-25 season that saw the Bulls miss the playoffs and continue to languish in the NBA’s middle tier, change feels inevitable. The team is reportedly open to exploring options for several veterans, and Vučević—an experienced, high-usage center—may be one of the most realistic trade candidates. But dealing him won’t be simple.

Vučević, who signed a three-year, $60 million extension with the Bulls in the summer of 2023, remains a polarizing figure. On one hand, he’s a double-double machine with a polished offensive game, reliable mid-range shooting, and strong rebounding. On the other hand, his defensive limitations, aging profile, and hefty contract complicate his trade value in today’s NBA landscape.

Why the Bulls Might Want to Move On

Chicago’s core of Vučević, DeMar DeRozan, and Zach LaVine has largely underwhelmed. Since acquiring Vučević from the Orlando Magic in 2021, the Bulls have made the playoffs only once, failing to generate significant momentum. While Vučević has been productive statistically—averaging around 18 points and 11 rebounds over his Bulls tenure—his presence hasn’t translated into meaningful team success.

The Bulls’ front office, led by Artūras Karnišovas and Marc Eversley, has stuck with the “win-now” strategy for several seasons, resisting the temptation to rebuild. But with time running out and the fanbase growing impatient, the team may finally be ready to pivot. Shedding veteran contracts, developing young talent like Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu, and adding future draft capital could all be on the table. Vučević, given his experience and remaining two years on his deal, is a logical candidate to move.

The Challenges of Trading Vučević

Despite the motivation to make a change, trading Vučević presents real challenges. His $20 million annual salary is not unreasonable by NBA standards, but for a big man whose best days may be behind him, it’s a significant cap commitment for potential suitors. Additionally, Vučević’s defensive struggles—particularly in pick-and-roll coverage—limit his fit with many contenders.

Another issue is positional scarcity. The modern NBA increasingly prioritizes mobile, rim-protecting centers or stretch bigs who can anchor a defense while spacing the floor. Vučević offers floor spacing, but he’s not a shot blocker or an elite defender. That limits his appeal to only a subset of teams—those who need frontcourt scoring but can cover for his defensive shortcomings.

Potential trade partners might also be hesitant to give up meaningful assets unless they see Vučević as the missing piece in a playoff push. With the league flooded with talent at the forward and center positions, it’s hard to see a bidding war forming for a player whose impact doesn’t always show up in the win column.

Potential Trade Scenarios

There are still plausible landing spots, though none are guaranteed.

• Dallas Mavericks: If they move on from one of their bigs and look to add more offensive versatility around Luka Dončić, Vučević could be a fit. However, Dallas would need to send matching salary and may not be eager to give up young pieces.
• Sacramento Kings: Vučević could provide veteran stability and help in the half-court offense, especially if the Kings want to pair him with Domantas Sabonis in short stints or as insurance.
• Charlotte Hornets: A rebuilding team that might look to acquire veterans to help mentor young players could see Vučević as a short-term stabilizer—if the price is right and a draft pick or young player comes back to Chicago.

However, all of these scenarios hinge on the Bulls’ willingness to take back long-term money, lower-tier assets, or even undesirable contracts in return. Unless Chicago is ready to fully embrace a rebuild, they may be reluctant to pull the trigger.

Looking Ahead

The Bulls’ situation is emblematic of many mid-tier teams stuck between contending and rebuilding. Moving Vučević won’t solve all their problems, but it could be the first domino in reshaping the roster for the future. His professionalism, consistency, and skillset still hold value, but the return may be modest.

If Chicago is serious about reshaping its direction, flexibility—not just assets—might be the most valuable return. That could mean swallowing a tough deal now for greater maneuverability later.

Whether or not Vučević is traded this summer, his presence symbolizes the Bulls’ ongoing struggle with identity. Are they still trying to win with the current core? Or are they finally ready to pivot toward a younger, more dynamic future?

The answer may come sooner rather than later—but it won’t come easily.

Would you like a shorter version or one with a particular tone or perspective (e.g., fan opinion, analytics-heavy, etc.)?