Grading the Magic-Bulls trade involving Nikola Vucevic

Chicago Bulls, Nikola Vucevic, Wendell Carter Jr., Orlando Magic, NBA news
NBA Analysis Network

Trade deadline is one of the best times to be a fan of the NBA and this year is no different. One of the biggest trades that has already been finalized involves both the Chicago Bulls and the Orlando Magic with All-Star center Nikola Vucevic going to the Bulls to team up with Zach LaVine. 

First reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski and later confirmed by NBA Analysis Network, the Bulls agreed to trade Wendell Carter Jr, Otto Porter Jr, Bulls’ 2021 1st Round Pick (Top-4 Protected) and Bulls’ 2023 1st Round Pick for Nikola Vucevic and veteran forward Al-Farouq Aminu. 

Vucevic, who is in his 10th season in the league, is having a career-year and was named an All-Star for the second-time in his career this year. In 44 games with the Magic this season, Nikola Vucevic averaged 24.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists and shot 48.0% from the floor, 40.6% from three-point range. 

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Not only has Vucevic solidified himself as one of the best centers in the entire league, but gives the Bulls a second All-Star player to pair with first-time All-Star Zach LaVine. This was something many were watching in NBA trade rumors.

The Magic were not expected to trade their All-Star center at the NBA trade deadline this year, but after weighing all options, they felt this deal presented them with the best opportunity to move forward as an organization and continue building a youthful core with young players like Jonathan Isaac, Markelle Fultz and Cole Anthony.

Chicago has made a statement move by trading for Vucevic and now, will look to cement their playoff position in an Eastern Conference that is very “top heavy.” With that said, let’s break down this trade for both teams and take a look at how this move should shape both team’s futures. 

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