Celtics Acquire Vucevic from Bulls in Exchange for Simons
On February 3, 2026, a notable trade unfolded between the Chicago Bulls and the Boston Celtics, dramatically shifting both teams’ dynamics. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Celtics have secured center Nikola Vucevic from the Bulls in exchange for Anfernee Simons and a second-round draft pick.
Celtics Acquire Vucevic from Bulls
The trade involves the following key elements:
- Teams Involved: Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics
- Players Involved: Nikola Vucevic and Anfernee Simons
- Additional Assets: Both teams exchanged a second-round pick
Nikola Vucevic: Career Overview
Nikola Vucevic, a 35-year-old center, is currently in his 15th season in the NBA. This season marks his sixth year with the Bulls. He has participated in 48 games, boasting impressive averages:
- Points: 16.9 per game
- Shooting Percentage: .505
- Rebounds: 9.0 per game
- Assists: 3.8 per game
- Minutes Played: 30.8 per game
Anfernee Simons: Role in Transition
In contrast, 26-year-old Anfernee Simons has just completed his first season with the Boston Celtics. He joined the team in the offseason after a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he had spent the first seven years of his career. Key statistics from Simons include:
- Points: 14.2 per game
- Shooting Percentage: .440
- Rebounds: 2.4 per game
- Assists: 2.4 per game
- Minutes Played: 24.5 per game
This trade has come right before the NBA trade deadline set for 4 p.m. ET on Thursday, emphasizing its urgency and significance for both franchises as they adjust their rosters for the remainder of the season.