Boston acquired center Nikola Vučević and a 2027 second-round asset from Chicago in February 2026. The Bulls received Anfernee Simons and a 2026 second-round choice. Boston added an experienced offensive big, while Chicago gained perimeter scoring and a nearer draft selection. The inherited Even Trade grades each team B.
The Celtics acquired Nikola Vučević and a future second-round right from Chicago in February 2026, sending Anfernee Simons and a 2026 second-round selection to the Bulls. Boston wanted experienced center play, while Chicago obtained a guard with an established perimeter scoring profile. The deal moved significant NBA talent in both directions rather than merely swapping unused contracts for cash or conditional distant rights.
Vučević offered a veteran center's combination of rebounding, post play and outside shooting. Boston could use him in lineups seeking a different frontcourt balance, but his previous statistics with Orlando and Chicago weren't automatically Celtics production. The receiving-team value would depend on how he fitted beside the club's other big men and stars after the deadline. The acquired 2027 second-round right gave Boston a separate future option.
Simons provided the Bulls with a younger guard who could score from the perimeter and handle offensive possessions. Chicago's additional 2026 second-round pick offered a nearer draft opportunity than the asset it sent to Boston. These returns served different development goals from retaining Vučević, whose career was further along. Simons's earlier performances in Portland or Boston helped establish his reputation but didn't become Chicago games on the trade date.
Boston chose interior experience and a future second, while Chicago accepted shot creation from the backcourt and a more immediate draft right. The inherited Even Trade gives B to both clubs. Neither the new center nor the new guard was a guaranteed playoff solution on arrival, and the picks could vary in actual future value. The agreement was a balance of present positional needs and development timelines.
Even Trade. Boston gets B for Nikola Vučević's experienced center play and a 2027 second-round right. Chicago also receives B for Anfernee Simons's perimeter scoring and a 2026 second-round selection. Each team acquired an established player at a different position plus draft compensation, with success dependent on subsequent roster fit.