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Nikola Vucevic Plans to Stay in NBA as He Enters Free Agency

His July 1 decision will depend on the offers he receives after a season shortened by a fractured finger that limited his playoff impact.

Overview

  • Vucevic finished the 2025–26 season split between the Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics, averaging 15.1 points, 8.4 rebounds and 3.3 assists across 64 regular-season games.
  • He told Montenegrin outlet Vijesti on Monday that he intends to remain in the NBA and will wait to evaluate offers once free agency opens on July 1.
  • A fractured finger after joining Boston required surgery, cost him regular-season time and contributed to a limited playoff showing of 6.2 points and 4.3 rebounds in six games while shooting 37.8 percent.
  • Boston is expected to explore other reserve-center options this summer, leaving Vucevic’s immediate future uncertain and making his age and $21.5 million 2025–26 salary likely factors in any contract offers.
  • His retirement from Montenegro’s national team removes international commitments, which could make him an attractive short-term, floor-spacing backup for teams seeking veteran frontcourt depth in July.