Time for a Change? Evaluating the Bulls Center Situation
When the Chicago Bulls traded for Nikola Vučević in March 2021, the front office hoped to catapult the franchise back into relevance. The two-time all-star center brought strong scoring ability, solid rebounding, and a stretch-the-floor skill set rarely seen in traditional big men. Initially, the move looked promising as Vučević averaged nearly 21 points and 11 rebounds per game during the remainder of that season. However, as the years have passed, the results have not matched the expectations. The Bulls remain stuck in the middle of the Eastern Conference, unable to rise into true contention or fall low enough to rebuild through the draft. That stagnation has fans and analysts alike questioning whether it is time for the team to move on from Vučević and reimagine their frontcourt.
Vučević has been a consistent offensive presence, averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds per game during the 2024–2025 NBA season. Despite those numbers, his impact often feels muted in today’s fast-paced and defense-oriented game. At six-foot-10, Vučević possesses the size of a prototypical center, but his lack of lateral quickness and defensive agility has become a glaring issue. He struggles in pick-and-roll coverage and often fails to protect the rim against more athletic opponents. Offensively, while he can stretch the floor and knock down mid-range shots, his fit alongside ball-dominant players like Coby White and Josh Giddey has at times looked awkward. The Bulls’ offense frequently stagnates in the half-court, and Vučević’s touches in the post rarely shift momentum during close games.
Another layer to this conversation involves the financial and strategic implications. Vučević signed a three-year, $60 million extension in July 2023, which signals that the front office still views him as a core piece. However, with the Bulls failing to make significant playoff progress and younger big men emerging across the league, the value of that contract is being questioned. Chicago must ask itself whether holding on to Vučević limits its flexibility to build a more modern and dynamic roster. With the 2025 NBA Draft approaching, the Bulls hold the 12th and 45th overall picks. This presents an opportunity to inject young talent into the lineup, especially in the frontcourt. If the organization decides to invest in a promising young big man, moving on from Vučević could become a necessary step toward a fresh direction. Now may be the right time to consider a change at the center position—not out of urgency, but out of necessity.
