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The Golden State Warriors are reportedly one of the top potential destinations for Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vučević on the trade market.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Warriors “have been at the front of the line” in terms of possible trade partners for Vučević.
A factor that could hold up a deal is the draft return for the center, though. Stein noted that the Bulls are seeking a first-round pick in exchange for Vučević, but the Warriors have been “unwilling” to give up more than second-round draft capital.
Anthony Slater of The Athletic reported on Jan. 14 that Golden State has “talked plenty internally about the need for a center who makes 3s consistently” to allow the team to utilize larger lineups containing Draymond Green and Jonathan Kuminga.
Vučević certainly fits the bill, as the two-time All-Star is known for his ability to stretch the floor. In 45 starts to open his 2024-25 campaign, he’s averaging 20.1 points and 10.3 rebounds to go along with 3.4 assists per game.
The 34-year-old is also shooting 55.5 percent from the field and 40.6 percent from three-point territory, both of which would represent career-high marks over the course of a full season.
While Vučević can provide space for Stephen Curry, he’d also help the two-time MVP get easier looks due to his screen-setting ability. He’s averaging 3.0 screen assists per game, which would represent the second-highest average on the Warriors behind backup center Kevon Looney (via NBA.com).
Golden State’s hesitancy to give up a first-round pick for Vučević likely stems from his age as well as his contract status, as he’s set to earn $21.5 million for the 2025-26 season before becoming an unrestricted free agent.
The Warriors are in danger of missing the playoffs for a second consecutive year, currently sitting at No. 11 in the Western Conference standings with a 22-23 record.
If Golden State continues to struggle, it could become more open to finalizing a deal for Vučević prior to the Feb. 6 trade deadline.