Chicago Bulls star Nikola Vucevic has been a cornerstone in the National Basketball Association (NBA) since being drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2011. Over his 13-year career, Vucevic has been a model of consistency, known for his scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities as a center. His reliability has made him an integral part of every team he has played for, most notably during his time with the Orlando Magic and now with the Chicago Bulls.
Despite Vucevic's continued production, including 45 double-doubles in 76 games last season, rumors surfaced during the offseason that the Bulls' front office was considering a significant overhaul of the roster ahead of the 2024/25 NBA season. This potential shake-up has fueled speculation that Vucevic could be traded as part of the team's efforts to rebuild with a younger core. Such a move would mark a major shift for the Bulls, as Vucevic’s veteran presence has been a stabilizing factor on the court.
In a recent interview with Iva Jevtic from B92, Vucevic addressed the swirling rumors about his future with the Bulls and his potential departure from the NBA. "I would love to play in the NBA for as long as possible. It’s the best league, with the best players and conditions," Vucevic said. "At this moment, I’m not thinking about a return to Europe. If it ever happens, Crvena Zvezda would be the main favorite, but many things would have to fall into place."
Nikola Vucevic on his retirement plan! pic.twitter.com/SF4fvJWxiC
— Jaomile podcast (@mileilic) September 3, 2024
The prospect of Vucevic returning to Europe has intrigued many, especially given his Serbian roots and the possibility of him joining a prominent EuroLeague team like Crvena Zvezda. However, Vucevic made it clear that, despite being 33 years old and aware that his NBA career is closer to the end than the beginning, he remains focused on competing at the highest level in the NBA. "I’m aware that I have been in the NBA for 13 years now, that the end is not that far off. I don’t believe I will play another 13 years, but I have two more years with Chicago, and I would like to play two more after that. I think I can play at a high level for that long, and then I will see," Vucevic added.
Vucevic is set to make $20 million in the 2024/25 season as he enters the second year of his three-year, $60 million contract with the Bulls. Despite the team's struggles, Vucevic has remained a consistent contributor, finishing the 2023/24 NBA season with averages of 18.0 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game. He shot 48.4 percent from the field, 29.4 percent from beyond the arc, and 82.2 percent from the free-throw line, demonstrating his well-rounded offensive game.
Selected as the 16th overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2011 NBA Draft, Vucevic’s journey has been marked by steady improvement and resilience. After his rookie season, he was traded to the Orlando Magic, where he spent nine seasons and established himself as one of the league's premier centers. His career averages of 17.1 points, 10.5 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game, along with two NBA All-Star selections, underscore his impact on the basketball sports game.
The Bulls, however, have struggled to find success in recent years. They missed the playoffs for a second consecutive season last year and have only made the postseason once since trading Jimmy Butler to the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2017. This lack of success has put pressure on the Bulls' front office to reconsider their approach, leading to the current speculation about potential trades and roster changes.
Vucevic's situation reflects the broader challenges faced by veteran players in the NBA, especially on teams undergoing rebuilding phases. His desire to continue playing in the NBA aligns with his commitment to competing at the highest level, but it also comes with the understanding that professional basketball careers are finite. His openness about possibly playing in Europe down the line, particularly with a team like Crvena Zvezda, offers a glimpse into his personal connection to his heritage and the allure of returning to play closer to home.
For now, Vucevic remains focused on his current role with the Bulls, aiming to make the most of his remaining years in the league. His dedication to his craft and his willingness to adapt to whatever the future holds are testaments to his professionalism and love for the game.
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