Who is Nikola Vucevic? Two-time All-Star reportedly traded to Celtics as Bulls acquire Anfernee Simons a second-round draft pick

The Chicago Bulls were very active in the trade market on Tuesday as they reportedly traded two-time All-Star center Nikola Vucevic to the Boston Celtics, ESPN reported citing resources. In return, Chicago received Anfernee Simons and a second-round draft pick. According to ESPN, the 6-foot-9 Vucevic is expected to fill a key need at center for the Celtics, who this season have mainly relied on inexperienced big men Neemias Queta, 26, and Luka Garza, 27, at the position.

Simons spent only this season with the Celtics after arriving in Boston in a trade last summer that sent Jrue Holiday to Portland. Despite playing the entire season without Jayson Tatum, who is recovering from a torn Achilles, the Celtics are tied with the New York Knicks for second place in the Eastern Conference.

As per ESPN, Boston also saved more than $20 million in luxury tax money by making the trade, sending Anfernee Simons and his $27 million expiring contract to Chicago in exchange for Nikola Vucevic and his $21 million expiring deal.


Earlier in the day, the Bulls also made another deal. They acquired Jaden Ivey from the Detroit Pistons and Mike Conley Jr. from the Minnesota Timberwolves in a three-team trade. As part of that deal, Chicago sent Kevin Huerter to Detroit.

Vucevic, who is 35 years old, brings experience to Boston’s frontcourt. He will join centers Luka Garza and Neemias Queta, giving the Celtics a strong veteran option inside. This season, Vucevic is averaging 16.9 points and 9.0 rebounds in 48 games. Over his 15-year NBA career, he has averaged 17.2 points and 10.4 rebounds while playing for the 76ers, Magic, and Bulls.

Simons, 26, was averaging 14.2 points in 49 games off the bench this season. Over his eight-year career, he has averaged 14.9 points per game, spending most of his career with the Portland Trail Blazers.