Nikola Vucevic, the talented Montenegrin center for the Chicago Bulls, is entering the final year of his current contract as the 2025-26 NBA season approaches. Despite his steady performance, the Bulls have encountered minimal trade activity involving Vucevic, prompting them to consider alternative options.
NBA insider Jake Fischer revealed in a recent Bleacher Report livestream that there has been an ongoing lack of serious trade interest for Vucevic, dating back to last February’s trade deadline. Although Vucevic remains productive, the market for his services has virtually dried up.
We’ve been talking about how there hasn’t been much of a market for Nikola Vučević all along, dating back to last trade deadline in February,
Fischer said.
Performance Stats and Growing Buyout Speculation
Vucevic appeared in 73 games during the last season, averaging a double-double with 18.5 points and 10.1 rebounds per game, along with 3.5 assists. While his numbers illustrate his on-court value, they have not translated into trade momentum. Fischer indicated the Bulls might lean toward a buyout arrangement if trade discussions remain stagnant.
We’re probably more likely to see a Nikola Vucevic buyout mid-season than we are to see a trade… Depending on how the market unfolds, depending on how injuries develop. There just really hasn’t been much of a Nikola Vucevic trade market in a while,
Fischer added.
Off-Court Tensions Highlighted by Vucevic’s Comments on Former Teammate
Meanwhile, Vucevic drew attention for a pointed comment about former Orlando Magic teammate Evan Fournier, who recently signed with Greek club Olympiacos. In a social media post, Vucevic expressed disdain toward Fournier’s move overseas, surprising fans who remembered the players as key partners with Orlando.
Feel sorry for Olympiakos fans having to watch this douchebag for 3 more seasons,
Vucevic wrote.
Their history includes nearly seven seasons as teammates with the Orlando Magic before Vucevic was traded to Chicago, making the harsh remark unexpected among observers familiar with their past collaboration.
Implications for Bulls and Vucevic’s Future
The scarcity of trade interest and the possibility of a mid-season buyout signal a challenging situation for both Vucevic and the Bulls. For Chicago, this means navigating salary cap and roster adjustments without the benefit of a trade deal. For Vucevic, a buyout could allow him to join a contender before the playoffs, altering his career trajectory.
As the season unfolds, the Bulls’ management will closely monitor market conditions and injury developments that could influence Vucevic’s status. This situation remains fluid, with significant implications for team strategy and player movement in the coming months.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many minutes does Nikola Vucevic average?
A. In his last 10 games, the experienced center has scored 19.2 points, grabbed 9.8 rebounds, and made 3.9 assists and 1 block per game.
He has played for an average of 29.1 minutes each game, shooting 55.4% from the field and 47.7% from beyond the arc.
Q. Is Nikola Vucevic good?
A. In the 2024-25 season in Chicago, Vucevic participated in 73 games and started in 72. He averaged 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Vucevic shot 53% from the field and made 40.2% of his three-point shots.
Q. Is Nikola Vucevic a good rim protector?
A. Chicago Bulls player Nikola Vucevic is not known for blocking shots like Rudy Gobert or Victor Wembanyama. He isn’t intimidating by the basket or known for sending shots into the stands. However, his defense is reliable, and head coach Billy Donovan has complimented his efforts.
Q. Does Nikola Vucevic play defense?
A. He naturally has a strong ability in defense and is clever on the court. He can predict other players’ moves and disrupts their game easily. He constantly puts pressure on opponents and is a nuisance when defending.