After missing the playoffs for the third straight year, the Chicago Bulls are at a crossroads. With Coby White and Josh Giddey leading the way, the front office has tough decisions to make. One of the biggest questions is what to do with their old veterans—most notably, two-time NBA All-Star Nikola Vucevic.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times’ Joe Cowley, the Bulls might be looking to trade Vucevic to get a star who can play alongside their young core.
Why Nikola Vucevic Could Be on the Move
At 34 years old, Vucevic is one of the most consistent big men in the league. Last season he averaged 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists per game and shot 50/40/80, nearly career-high numbers. But his age and expiring contract make him a trade candidate as the Bulls look to speed up their rebuild or make a splash in free agency.
Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Arturas Karnisovas has been aggressive in moving veterans since last summer, so Vucevic might be next.
The Zion Williamson Connection
One name that keeps popping up in trade rumors is New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson. Cowley says Karnisovas might try to package Vucevic in a deal to get the talented forward.
Williamson is an athlete and scorer and could give the Bulls the star power they’ve been missing. With him and White and Giddey, the Bulls could have a trio that gets them back into the playoffs—and maybe beyond.
No official talks have been confirmed but using Vucevic as the centerpiece in a trade shows the Bulls are willing to take risks for long term success.
The Future of the Young Core
As they weigh their options, the Bulls also have to figure out what to do with their young players. Josh Giddey, who was a breakout star in 2024-2025, is a restricted free agent this summer. His numbers— 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists per game —make him the point guard of the future.
Coby White’s contract expires in 2026 and he had a good season— 20.4 points, 4.5 assists per game. Both are the foundation of the franchise but locking them up long term will require financial planning if the Bulls make a big trade.
What This Means for the Roster?
If the Bulls trade Vucevic, it’s a sign they’re prioritizing youth and potential over immediate help. Losing a veteran like Vucevic would leave a hole in leadership and production, but getting someone like Zion Williamson would offset that loss with star power.
Also, the Bulls have several role players whose futures are up in the air. Lonzo, Patrick Williams, and others could see their roles diminish depending on what happens in trades or free agency.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 offseason will define the Chicago Bulls for years to come. Trading an All-Star like Nikola Vucevic seems risky but it could be the key to a brighter future. Whether they get a superstar like Zion Williamson or develop their young core the Bulls are going to change big time.
For fans, the question remains: will these moves get the Bulls back to championship contention or prolong the struggles? Only time will tell.