Lakers Trade Rumors Again Link LA To Long Coveted Big Man, Despite Recent Push Back

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Vučević, 34, is entering the final year of his three-year, $60 million contract with the Bulls. Last season, he averaged 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game while shooting 53% from the field and 40.2% from three, showcasing his rare combination of scoring, rebounding, and floor-spacing ability.

Sports Illustrated’s Liam Willerup proposed a hypothetical trade that would send Vučević to the Lakers in exchange for Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, and top-5 protected swap rights in the 2028 NBA Draft. “Adding Vučević would give Los Angeles a polished, experienced center capable of complementing Luka and LeBron while providing interior scoring and defensive stability,” Willerup wrote.

Although Deandre Ayton anchors the Lakers’ frontcourt, he has faced criticism for inconsistent effort and motivation. Vučević could provide an experienced, reliable option alongside Ayton, helping head coach JJ Redick implement a versatile frontcourt rotation that could run five-out lineups around Dončić and James.

Vučević’s Perspective

Despite Lakers trade speculation, Vučević has expressed a desire to compete for a championship, but remains committed to the Bulls for now. “There are some good, young pieces that can be built around,” Vučević said. “I have trust in them and believe they want to do what’s best and build a good team that wants to win. Obviously, I’m at the stage in my career where I’m trying to win now, play in the playoffs and hopefully have deep playoff runs. It all depends on what their timeline is and how they see this team.”

Vučević also told BasketUSA, “A week ago, the Bulls general manager contacted me after all the rumors about me and confirmed that none of it was true. I knew that, but it’s always nice when your GM calls you to tell you.”

Marc Stein reinforced this stance, noting Vučević “should by no means be considered a buyout candidate this summer” and will open the year in Chicago unless a trade materializes. Similarly, ClutchPoints’ Anthony Irwin reported that while the Lakers are monitoring Vučević, there is currently no indication the Bulls are willing to part ways.

Roster Considerations for the Lakers

The Lakers’ interest in Vučević reflects their ongoing need for a floor-spacing, versatile big man who can complement their stars and stabilize the frontcourt rotation. L.A. is currently above the first tax apron, meaning signing Vučević via buyout midseason would be nearly impossible. Any addition would require either a rare preseason buyout or a trade, likely involving expiring contracts such as Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, or Maxi Kleber.

For now, though, the Lakers’ front office seems content with the roster as constructed. Redick’s rotation now features two superstars in Dončić and James, supported by a contingent of skilled, versatile role players. If Vučević becomes available and a trade makes sense, the Lakers could pursue him; otherwise, L.A. appears ready to challenge in the Western Conference with the current lineup.

Bottom Line

Nikola Vučević remains one of the NBA’s most reliable and underrated centers, a California native with ties to the area and the ability to fit seamlessly into the Lakers’ system. However, for the immediate future, the message from Vučević’s camp and the Bulls is clear: he’s staying put. Until that changes, the Lakers will have to rely on the depth they’ve built this offseason and continue searching for ways to bolster their frontcourt behind Ayton and Jaxson Hayes.