The Chicago Bulls are at a critical juncture in their roster rebuild, with a surprising focus on finding a replacement for veteran center Nikola Vucevic in the 2025 NBA Draft. This decision not only signals a strategic shift for the franchise but also sends shockwaves through the NBA fanbase and analysts.
Nikola Vucevic’s Current Status
At 34 years old, Nikola Vucevic remains one of the NBA’s premier centers. In the 2024/25 season, he’s averaging 18.7 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, shooting an impressive 55.4% from the field and 40.3% from three-point range. These numbers highlight Vucevic’s continued value, particularly his versatile scoring and rebounding prowess. However, his defensive shortcomings are a glaring weakness. Vucevic often struggles against quicker centers or teams with high-tempo offenses, costing the Bulls in crucial games. Additionally, with his age and expiring contract, Vucevic no longer aligns with the Bulls’ youth-focused long-term vision.
Having parted ways with stars like Alex Caruso, DeMar DeRozan, and Zach LaVine over the past 18 months, the Bulls now boast the NBA’s eighth-youngest roster, with an average age of 25.5. Retaining a 34-year-old like Vucevic seems at odds with the team’s rebuilding strategy.
Why the Bulls Are Seeking a Replacement
Several factors are driving the Bulls’ decision to target a Vucevic replacement in the 2025 NBA Draft:
Emphasis on a youthful core: The Bulls are building around young talents like Josh Giddey, Coby White, and Matas Buzelis. A young, dynamic center would better complement the fast-paced, modern style that coach Billy Donovan aims to implement.
Need for defensive improvement: Vucevic’s defensive limitations are evident. The Bulls require a center who can anchor the paint, block shots, and contribute to perimeter defense—an urgent need given the defensive weaknesses of Giddey and White.
Valuable draft assets: The Bulls hold a first-round pick from the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2025 NBA Draft, which could land in the lottery. With a highly touted draft class featuring prospects like Cooper Flagg, the Bulls have a prime opportunity to select a promising center.
Salary cap optimization: Vucevic’s $20 million annual contract is one of the most team-friendly deals for a starting center. Trading him could yield additional draft picks or young players, accelerating the Bulls’ rebuild.
Potential 2025 Draft Targets
According to experts, the Bulls could target several promising centers in the 2025 NBA Draft, particularly if they secure a top-10 pick. One standout name is Derik Queen from Maryland. In the latest mock draft by The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie, Queen is praised as a playmaking big man, averaging 16.3 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 assists per game in the NCAA. Queen’s scoring ability, court vision, and passing skills are rare for a center. If he develops his outside shooting, he could become a modernized version of Vucevic with greater defensive upside.
Another option is Danny Wolf, a versatile center gaining attention for his all-around game. However, Queen is currently viewed as the superior prospect due to his consistency and long-term potential. The Bulls may also consider other centers if their draft pick falls to No. 12 or lower, but their priority is a player who can bolster defense while fitting their offensive system.
Vucevic Trade Plans
Alongside their draft strategy, the Bulls are actively exploring trade offers for Vucevic. NBA insider Marc Stein reports that the Bulls are seeking at least one 2025 first-round pick in exchange for the Montenegrin center. Given his strong performance and reasonable contract, Vucevic is an attractive asset for teams needing a boost at center, such as the Los Angeles Lakers or Golden State Warriors.
One potential scenario involves the Bulls trading Vucevic and a reserve player like Jevon Carter to the Atlanta Hawks for Onyeka Okongwu and a few second-round picks. Okongwu, a young center with elite defensive skills, could serve as a bridge until the Bulls secure a long-term replacement in the draft.
Impact on Long-Term Strategy
Replacing Vucevic marks a pivotal moment for the Chicago Bulls. After years of middling rosters lacking cohesion, the team appears ready to fully embrace the future. The 2025 NBA Draft, with its wealth of young talent, offers the Bulls a chance to establish a new core. If they successfully draft a promising center and execute a savvy Vucevic trade, the Bulls could soon rejoin the Eastern Conference’s contenders.
However, this move carries risks. Vucevic is currently the Bulls’ most reliable player, and moving on from him could lead to short-term struggles, especially as their young core continues to develop. Additionally, if the Bulls’ draft pick falls outside the top 10, they may miss out on the draft’s top centers.
Conclusion
The Chicago Bulls’ plan to replace Nikola Vucevic in the 2025 NBA Draft is a bold move that underscores their commitment to a thorough rebuild. Armed with valuable draft assets, a flexible payroll, and a promising trade market, the Bulls have a chance to reshape their future. Can Derik Queen or another young talent fill the void left by Vucevic? The answer will begin to unfold as the 2025 NBA Draft approaches.