Despite widespread criticism and skepticism aimed at the Chicago Bulls for their quiet offseason and initial struggles to trade star center Nikola Vucevic, a surprising new perspective has emerged from within the organization, suggesting the two-time All-Star still possesses significant trade value.

While many in the league and among the fan base anticipated that Vucevic might eventually part ways with the team via a buyout, a Bulls insider firmly believes this is not the team’s current strategy.

According to K.C. Johnson, a reputable Chicago Sports Network Bulls insider, the team is actively pushing back against speculation of a Vucevic buyout. Instead, the focus remains on exploring potential trade options for the veteran center leading up to the crucial February 2026 trade deadline.

Vucevic’s performance during the 2024-25 campaign, which saw him achieve his best season in Chicago with impressive averages of 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, was a key factor in his perceived value. This strong showing fueled expectations that he would indeed command significant interest on the NBA trade market.

The Chicago Bulls are banking on this demonstrated value, hoping to strategically convert the final year of Vucevic’s contract into valuable assets that can contribute to the team’s long-term development and competitiveness.

Assuming a basketball transfer becomes feasible later in the season, the ideal scenario for Nikola Vucevic and the Bulls front office alike involves a mutually beneficial separation that would see him join a playoff-caliber team.

At 34 years old, Vucevic could provide a scoring and rebounding boost off the bench, likely signing for the minimum. His skill set as a floor-spacing big with championship experience offers a valuable veteran presence, precisely what contending teams frequently seek during the crucial February and March push towards the playoffs.