The Chicago Bulls are looking to sign big man Nikola Vucevic to a three-year extension, according to NBA insider Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times.
Vucevic will become an unrestricted free agent this summer if an extension isn’t agreed upon by June 30.
“Project ‘Blow Up’’ is not an option, according to Karnisovas, who seems fine with staying on the path of continuity,” Cowley wrote. “The organization is content to hold out hope for a miraculous Lonzo Ball recovery from three surgeries on his left knee, while beginning negotiations on Nikola Vucevic’s contract extension over the last week. The Bulls are looking to lock up the big man for the next three years.”
The Bulls acquired Vucevic from the Orlando Magic in March 2021. Chicago traded Wendell Carter Jr., Otto Porter, a 2021 first-round pick (Franz Wagner was later selected) and a 2023 first-round pick to Orlando for Vucevic. The Magic also received a trade exception from the Bulls in the blockbuster trade.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Nikola Vucevic & Chicago Bulls Updates
Vucevic is averaging 18.2 points and 11.1 rebounds in 181 games with the Bulls. The two-time All-Star and Chicago’s front office have already opened discussions on a contract extension, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
“In Chicago, I’m told that the Bulls have opened up extension conversations with their starting center Nikola Vucevic,” Charania wrote. “Sources tell me there is mutual interest in getting a deal done. Both sides have until June 30 to get an extension done. If there is no agreement by that point, Vucevic would enter free agency and be one of the top centers available on the market.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Nikola Vucevic & Chicago Bulls Updates
Vucevic averaged 17.6 points, 11.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists for the Bulls this season while shooting 52.0% from the field, 34.9% from beyond the arc and 83.5% from the free-throw line. He was third in the NBA in double-doubles (51).
The Bulls, despite having Vucevic, Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan, missed the playoffs this year after making it in 2022.
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