Nikola Vucevic puts Bulls on notice amid Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan trade rumors

“We know we can do better, and we have to do better,” Vučević said. “And we know it’s kind of our last chance as this core of guys to do something.”

Vučević, 32, is coming off yet another productive season for the Bulls. Posing as a walking double-double, the two-time All-Star averaged 17.6 points and 11 rebounds in 82 games last season— his fifth consecutive campaign averaging at least 17 points and 10 rebounds per game. 

The Bulls have been unable to capitalize on Vučević's steady production over the years, playing five total playoff games since his arrival in Chicago two and a half seasons ago. The Bulls' inability to make waves in the East has the futures of LaVine and DeRozan in serious doubt. 

Chicago owes LaVine $129M over the next three years. He also holds a $48.9M player option for 2026-27. If the Bulls continue to wallow in mediocrity this season, LaVine becomes a logical trade candidate bound to intrigue title contenders. 

According to Fred Katz of The Athletic, the New York Knicks engaged in trade conversations with the Bulls about LaVine leading up to the draft. Ultimately nothing materialized, as Chicago's asking price for the two-time All-Star was “giant." The Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers are two other teams that have been linked to LaVine in recent years.  

DeRozan's status in Chicago is even more iffy than LaVine's, as the 34-year-old is entering the final year of his contract. DeRozan will likely be the first domino to fall if the Bulls tear things down and enter a rebuild. 

Moving off DeRozan sooner rather than later would shield the organization from losing the six-time All-Star for nothing in the offseason.