Bulls signal Nikola Vucevic to contract extension – NBA Weblog – NBA Basketball Weblog
The Chicago Bulls have signed middle Nikola Vučević to a contract extension.
Vucevic’s extension is reportedly a three-year, $60 million deal.
“Throughout his time in Chicago, Nikola has confirmed that he’s a particular participant each on and off the courtroom,” mentioned Artūras Karnišovas, Government Vice President – Basketball Operations. “He has produced at an elite stage since we acquired him and can stay an integral a part of our basis shifting ahead. Nikola’s willingness to do no matter is requested of him to assist us win, whereas additionally being a longtime veteran chief for our group, makes him a worthwhile element of the tradition of our group. He’s a consummate skilled and super teammate, which performs a giant function in making us a horny vacation spot for different gamers. We’re excited to have him proceed to be a part of our journey.”
Per the Chicago Tribune, “the Bulls’ resolution to commerce for Vučević has been a degree of competition since he arrived in Chicago. The acquisition value the Bulls a pair of first-round draft picks, Otto Porter Jr. and Wendell Carter Jr. And whereas Vučević has been an improve at middle, the Bulls have comparatively little to point out for it — one successful season and one playoff win.”
“I’m excited to proceed my journey as a Chicago Bull,” mentioned Vučević. “Since I’ve arrived in Chicago, everybody within the group has been extremely welcoming to my household and me. I’m motivated greater than ever to attain our mutual targets as a staff. I wish to thank the Reinsdorf household and Artūras for persevering with to imagine in me. I additionally wish to thank Bulls followers for the fixed help, you guys are the very best half about taking part in in Chicago. We are going to work more durable than ever to convey success to the town of Chicago.”
Vučević, 6-10, 260, averaged 17.6 factors, 11.0 rebounds and three.2 assists in 33.5 minutes whereas taking part in in all 82 video games (82 begins) for Chicago in 2022-23. He completed third within the NBA in double-doubles (51) a yr in the past, turning into the fourth participant in Bulls historical past with 50-plus double-doubles in a season (A. Gilmore, C. Oakley, P. Gasol). The Montenegro native and former USC product was the one NBA participant to make at the least 100 three-pointers (121) and seize 800-plus rebounds (903) final season and is the one Bulls participant to ever accomplish that. Vučević ranked second within the league with 903 complete rebounds, whereas main the NBA with 744 defensive rebounds. His 744 defensive boards marked the sixth-highest season complete in Bulls historical past, together with the very best since 1997-98 (D. Rodman).