With Kristaps Porzingis traded, Luke Kornet heading to the Spurs, and Al Horford likely departing, the Boston Celtics are entering the 2025–26 season with a significant gap at the center position.
Although Neemias Queta remains on the roster and the team recently added Luka Garza, neither player is viewed as a dependable long-term starter for a championship-caliber squad. The free agent market offers little help, and while a player like Ben Simmons could be a creative experiment, his lack of size makes him a tough fit against elite big men.
However, Boston could have an unexpected opportunity down the road.
Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer recently reported that the Chicago Bulls may consider waiving veteran center Nikola Vucevic mid-season rather than seeking a trade. “We’re probably more likely to see a Nikola Vucevic buyout mid-season than we are to see a trade,” Fischer noted in a live stream, citing limited trade interest in the two-time All-Star.
If Vucevic becomes a free agent through a buyout, he’d be a low-cost but high-upside option for Boston. At 34, Vucevic still delivered strong numbers last season, averaging 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game while shooting an efficient 53% from the field and 40.2% from three-point range. Though not known for defensive versatility, his offensive skill set would provide the Celtics with a unique and valuable addition.
In what may turn out to be a “bridge year” while Jayson Tatum recovers from a torn Achilles, Vucevic could help Boston stay competitive and provide veteran stability in the frontcourt.
Still, the big question is whether Vucevic would actually see Boston as a worthwhile destination. After spending several years with a middling Bulls team, joining a Celtics squad that may not contend this season might not appeal to him. Boston’s winning culture remains strong, but the 2025–26 campaign looks uncertain at best. The team could find itself fighting for a lower playoff seed or even miss the postseason altogether.
Adding Vucevic wouldn’t instantly return the Celtics to title contention, but his presence would undoubtedly raise their floor. If he becomes available, pursuing him would be a smart move for Boston even if the timing isn’t perfect.
