Wizards Make Moves: Vukcevic Promoted, Black Joins
The Washington Wizards have made a strategic roster move, elevating center Tristan Vukcevic from a two-way deal to a three-year, $9 million standard contract, with a team option for the third year. This decision comes as Vukcevic neared the 50-game limit for two-way players, having played in 35 games this season. His contributions, averaging 7.9 points and 2.7 rebounds in just over 12 minutes per game, have clearly impressed the front office.
With no need for a corresponding roster adjustment, the Wizards seamlessly filled Vukcevic’s two-way slot by signing wing Leaky Black. Black, an undrafted talent from North Carolina, has already shown his skills with the Capital City Go-Go and brings valuable experience from his time with Charlotte.
Bulls Face Setbacks: Collins Out, Ivey Under Evaluation
In Chicago, the Bulls are dealing with a significant blow as veteran big man Zach Collins is set to undergo surgery for a persistent right toe injury, ending his season prematurely. Collins, who also dealt with a wrist injury earlier, managed to play in just 10 games, posting averages of 9.7 points and 5.6 rebounds. With his contract concluding, Collins will enter the free-agent market this summer, potentially facing a reset in his career trajectory.
Adding to the Bulls' challenges, guard Jaden Ivey will be reevaluated in two weeks due to left knee soreness. Since joining Chicago, Ivey has averaged 11.5 points over four games and will become a restricted free agent unless the team decides otherwise.
Trail Blazers Stumble Post All-Star Break
The Portland Trail Blazers had a rough outing against the Denver Nuggets, suffering a 157-103 defeat. This game marked a record for the Nuggets, scoring the most points ever in a road game, and the highest by any team this season.
Acting coach Tiago Splitter didn’t mince words, calling it "one of our worst games of the season" and highlighting the team’s lack of readiness. As they prepare to face Phoenix next, the Blazers will need to bring a renewed sense of urgency to turn things around.