Nikola Vucevic is expected to re-sign with the Chicago Bulls this summer, according to NBA insider Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Vucevic’s projected free agency value is three years in the $65 million range.
“The belief among various NBA executives who spoke with HoopsHype is that Nikola Vucevic, one of the top free agents on the market, will re-sign with the Chicago Bulls. Vucevic’s projected free agency value, according to those executives, is three years in the $65 million range,” Scotto wrote.
Vucevic averaged 17.6 points, 11.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists for the Bulls in 2022-23 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 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 will become an unrestricted free agent this offseason if he doesn’t sign an extension with the Bulls by June 30. 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
The Bulls missed the playoffs in 2023 after making it in 2022. Chicago lost the 8-9 play-in game to the Miami Heat in South Beach.
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