Chicago Bulls Receive: F Davis Bertans, C Dwight Powell, 2022 First-Round Pick (DAL)
Dallas Mavericks Receive: C Nikola Vucevic
On the surface, this looks like a bad deal for the Chicago Bulls. Unfortunately for them, Nikola Vucevic may not have much more value than what they’re receiving here.
Vooch is only 30, but he’s an old 30. He was never the most athletic player to begin with, so signs of early decline are concerning. Plus, as mentioned, he’s always been a net negative on defense.
Many teams prioritize point prevention from big men. With no assurance that his three-point accuracy will climb back up, he runs the risk of being a throwback center with a $22 million price tag.
If that’s what he’s become, this is a fair return for his services. The Bulls get their defensive big in Powell. He’s not as skilled a player, but he’s an effective low-usage pick-and-roll finisher. He’s also a strong defensive player. Adding him at the cost of Vucevic could be a case of addition by subtraction.
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Meanwhile, they get another defensively limited stretch big in Bertans. At least he’s more reliable. While his accuracy has fluctuated throughout his career as well, it’s never sunk as low as Vucevic’s did last season.
The Bulls also add a first-round pick as a sweetener. On the other hand, if they’re not interested in the veterans they’re receiving here, there may be another deal on the table.
