Ranking the 6 best available centers in 2023 NBA free agency

NBA Free Agent Center #5: Nikola Vucevic

After making the playoffs last season, the Chicago Bulls failed to repeat that success. Now, as two of their big three near their mid-thirties, the Bulls will have to decide whether to retool around all-star Zack LaVine. Chicago’s decision not to extend All-Star center Nikola Vucevic may tip their hand at their future plans, and he may not be a part of them.

At 32, both he and 33-year-old DeMar DeRozan are perhaps too seasoned to build around, and they may cut bait with Vucevic. Of course, he isn’t nearly as productive of a player as he was in his Orlando Magic days, and a crowded center market could hurt him. Perhaps the most likely route is a sign-and-trade, where teams that would otherwise be priced out of his market could work out a deal with him and the Bulls.

One such option could be the Phoenix Suns, who appear open to trading former number-one overall pick Deandre Ayton. A sign-and-trade centered around Vucevic and Ayton may make sense for both teams, though another team such as the Dallas Mavericks could be an option as well. Ultimately, Vucevic’s age, along with the availability of other top free-agent centers, may hurt his value. Be that as it may, a couple of playoff teams could show interest.