The Golden State Warriors are not considered a serious suitor for Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vučević, despite previously being linked to the two-time All-Star by various insiders.
Chicago has ramped up efforts to trade Vučević this offseason. The 34-year-old is entering the final season of his contract and will earn $21.4 million in 2024–25. The Bulls attempted to move him at the trade deadline in February but were unable to find a deal they liked.
Although many around the league connected the Warriors to Vučević this summer, Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer cast doubt on the possibility.
Vučević is coming off another productive season in Chicago. He appeared in 73 games and averaged 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, shooting 53.0% from the field, 40.2% from three, and 80.5% from the free-throw line.
However, Golden State’s current approach to team-building signals a different direction. The team has remained connected to Al Horford before free agency and, sources said, is interested in bringing back De’Anthony Melton once Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free agency is resolved.
Sources said the Bulls are among the teams believed to have interest in Kuminga. However, without the Warriors being interested in taking on Vučević, a pathway for a sign-and-trade is naturally complicated. Instead of parting with young assets or draft capital to acquire a center like Vučević on an expiring deal, the Warriors are targeting short-term additions that fit within their limited financial flexibility.
The Warriors were eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2025 Western Conference semifinals. With Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green as foundational pieces, Golden State remains in win-now mode, but front office decision-makers appear cautious about sacrificing youth or cap control for a rental with limited upside.
Vučević, who has played for the Orlando Magic and Bulls during his career, has averaged 17.2 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.9 assists across 972 NBA games. While his shooting and rebounding still carry value for playoff-caliber teams, Golden State appears content addressing its frontcourt needs through cheaper options in free agency like Horford.
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