The Boston Celtics are making moves-and they’re not subtle about it.
In a trade that could reshape their frontcourt rotation, the Celtics have acquired veteran center Nikola Vucevic from the Chicago Bulls. Boston is sending guard Anfernee Simons and a second-round pick to Chicago in exchange for Vucevic and a second-rounder of their own. It’s a chess move by Celtics president Brad Stevens, who’s clearly working the margins with the trade deadline just days away.
Let’s unpack what this means for both sides-and why it could be a pivotal step in Boston’s postseason push.
For Boston: Size, Skill, and a Window That’s Still Wide Open
Vucevic brings a versatile offensive skill set that fits neatly into what Boston likes to do. He’s a two-time All-Star who can stretch the floor, pass out of the high post, and still bang down low when needed. While he’s not a rim protector in the mold of Robert Williams III (when healthy), Vucevic offers a high-IQ presence with playoff experience and the ability to anchor bench units-or even start in certain matchups.
This isn’t just about talent, though. The Celtics are also saving $6 million in the deal, giving Stevens added flexibility to make another move before the deadline. That financial breathing room could be key if Boston wants to add another rotation piece, especially with Simons’ contract now off the books.
And here's the kicker: Boston pulled this off without giving up a first-round pick. That’s a win in itself. The Celtics are clearly operating with the assumption that Jayson Tatum will return in time for the postseason, but even if he doesn’t, this roster-with the addition of Vucevic and the earlier acquisition of Jaren Jackson Jr.-has enough depth and versatility to make a deep playoff run.
For Chicago: A Reset in the Backcourt
On the other side, the Bulls are getting younger and more dynamic. Anfernee Simons is a high-upside guard who can create off the dribble and shoot from deep.
He’s still developing as a playmaker, but his scoring instincts are real. In a Bulls backcourt that’s been searching for consistency, Simons brings a spark and a chance to build toward the future.
Chicago also swaps second-round picks in the deal, which may not move the needle much on its own but adds a layer of optionality for a front office that’s clearly looking to retool.
What’s Next?
Don’t expect this to be the last move from Boston. With cap flexibility now in hand and a clearer picture of their roster needs, another transaction could be on the horizon-possibly a lower-cost guard to fill the Simons-sized hole in the rotation. The Celtics are in win-now mode, and Stevens is playing it like a GM who knows the window is open and the time is now.
As for the Bulls, this could be the start of a broader shift. If Simons clicks, he could be a core piece moving forward. If not, Chicago still gains financial flexibility and a clearer path toward reshaping its roster.
Bottom line: Boston just added a skilled big man, saved money, and kept its future assets intact. That’s the kind of deadline move that can pay off in May-and maybe even June.