The Chicago Bulls have received a potential timeframe for when Nikola Vucevic will return to the court. The veteran big man missed his team’s last game against the Atlanta Hawks due to a groin strain. According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Vucevic will be out of action for between 7-10 days as he continues his recovery.
Vucevic has been enjoying a strong season, averaging 16.7 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, shooting 45.2% from the field and 28.1% from 3-point range. He has also been part of the rotation that has won nine of their last 13 games, which has predominantly coincided with the absence of Zach LaVine.
The veteran big man is in the first year of his new three-year contract worth $60 million. He joined the Bulls midway through the 2020-21 season via a trade with the Orlando Magic.
Expected timetable for Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic with groin strain: At least next 7 to 10 days, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Bulls have won nine of 13 games, including Tuesday minus Vucevic, who has averaged 19 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists over his last 10. pic.twitter.com/8k2z1wX2N6
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 27, 2023
Given his recent performances, there’s no telling whether the Bulls’ front office would look to move on from Vucevic should they choose to enter a rebuild before the February trade deadline.
