Overview
- ESPN’s Shams Charania reported the deal sending Simons and a second-round pick to Chicago for Vucevic and a second-rounder.
- Both contracts expire this season, with Simons at $27.7 million and Vucevic about $21.5 million.
- Boston’s projected tax payment drops from roughly $39.5 million to about $17 million, moving the team under the first apron, per ESPN’s Bobby Marks.
- Vucevic, 35, brings shooting and size to a thin frontcourt, averaging 16.9 points and 9.0 rebounds on 37.6% from three this season.
- Trading Simons (14.2 points per game off the bench) creates a backup-guard need for Boston, while Chicago’s already crowded backcourt after adding Jaden Ivey and Mike Conley could prompt further moves before Thursday’s deadline.