Jayson Tatum of Boston Celtics (Image via Instagram / @jaytatum0) The Boston Celtics are once again at the center of NBA trade speculation, this time involving Chicago Bulls veteran center Nikola Vucevic. With star forward Jayson Tatum sidelined by a season-ending Achilles injury, the reigning champions are exploring ways to remain competitive, and one of the most prominent rumors suggests a deal centered on Vucevic and Anfernee Simons.As the trade deadline looms, this potential move highlights Boston’s balancing act between filling a frontcourt void, managing salary concerns, and keeping their championship window alive.
Why Nikola Vucevic to the Boston Celtics Makes Sense
Jayson Tatum’s ruptured right Achilles tendon, suffered in May 2025, has left the Boston Celtics scrambling for answers. The absence of their top scorer and cornerstone player creates both a scoring and rebounding gap.Recent roster changes have only deepened the issue. Kristaps Porzingis and Luke Kornet have departed, while veteran Al Horford’s status remains uncertain. That leaves Neemias Queta and Luka Garza as options, neither of whom has the experience to anchor Boston’s starting lineup.
Trainers help Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum (0) off the court after he was injured during the second half of Game 4 in the Eastern Conference semifinals of the NBA basketball playoffs against the New York Knicks, May 12, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II, File)
This is where Nikola Vucevic enters the picture. The two-time All-Star brings scoring, floor spacing, and a stabilizing presence at center. Trade chatter suggests Boston could pursue a deal for Vucevic, potentially with a secondary piece like Ayo Dosunmu, while sending Simons and draft picks to Chicago.In proposed deals, Boston would acquire Vucevic and potentially another role player (such as Ayo Dosunmu), while sending Anfernee Simons and possibly other assets like draft picks to Chicago.
How NBA Trades Work
NBA trades are complex transactions where teams exchange players, picks, and sometimes cash. All deals must comply with the league’s salary cap rules, requiring salaries to match within a certain percentage.In this scenario, Boston aims to strengthen its center position while also shedding salary. Trading Simons, who is on an expiring contract, allows the Celtics to avoid deeper luxury tax penalties. Chicago, meanwhile, gets an asset in Simons without long-term financial commitment, while moving on from a player in Vucevic whose market has cooled.
What the Celtics Gain
• Fill a critical frontcourt hole left by Tatum’s absence and roster turnover • Save an estimated $6.2 million in salary this season by swapping Simons for Vucevic • Add veteran leadership with Vucevic’s All-Star experience • Keep playoff competitiveness alive despite losing their superstar
What Nikola Vucevic Gains
• Opportunity to join a contender fresh off a championship run • Clearer role as a starting center compared to his uncertain place in Chicago • Chance to showcase his skills on a national stage, potentially boosting his value for future deals
What the Chicago Bulls Gain
Anfernee Simons (Image via Getty)
• Acquire a scoring guard in Simons, who adds athleticism and depth to their backcourt • Gain financial flexibility with his expiring contract • Add a tradeable piece for future roster moves during their rebuilding process
Pros and Cons at a Glance
AspectProsCons Boston Celtics Acquire an experienced starting center; Save $6.2 million; Remain playoff-relevant Lose a dynamic scorer in Simons; Vucevic’s defensive concerns; Short-term solution with contract expiring Nikola Vucevic Play for a contender; Defined starting role; Showcase ability on big stage Pressure to deliver immediately; Adjusting to new team mid-season Chicago Bulls Gain scoring punch with Simons; Salary relief; Asset for rebuilding Risk of backcourt overcrowding; Potential roster imbalance; Limited return for Vucevic
Who Wins the Trade?
This deal appears to be a win for both sides, though Boston would arguably benefit the most in the short term. By filling their glaring frontcourt weakness and trimming salary, the Boston Celtics keep their championship ambitions alive. Nikola Vucevic gains a fresh chance at playoff success, while the Bulls take a step forward in rebuilding with a flexible asset in Simons.The risks are clear: Boston sacrifices scoring depth, Chicago risks a logjam at guard, and Vucevic must prove himself defensively. Yet, the immediate needs of both teams make this scenario one of the more logical trade rumors circulating.Amid the uncertainty of Tatum’s absence, Boston’s rumored pursuit of Nikola Vucevic reflects how quickly NBA teams adapt to adversity. Trades like this underline the delicate balance between short-term competitiveness and long-term planning.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors Could Target $30 Million Los Angeles Clippers Star to Support Stephen Curry and Improve Title OddsIf executed, the move could define not only the Boston Celtics’ defense of their title but also the next phase of the Bulls’ rebuild. For now, fans will keep a close eye as the trade deadline approaches, with this potential deal standing out as one of the most practical solutions for both franchises.