The process of finding Nikola Vucevic’s successor could be winding down.
As the Chicago Bulls stare down the realities of Father Time and the timeline along which they’re otherwise operating, Danny Wolf looks the part of the perfect Nikola Vucevic replacement.
Vucevic is preparing for his 15th NBA season, during which he’ll turn 35 years of age. Considering Jevon Carter is the only other player on the Bulls who will be older than 28 at the start of the 2025-26 season, Vucevic is toeing the thin line between veteran leader and needing a change of scenery.
Thankfully for Chicago, it’s equipped with the No. 12 overall selection in the 2025 NBA Draft—and could thus find Vucevic’s replacement as soon as June 25.
Wolf is near the top of the list of options to help the Bulls prepare for life after Vucevic. He’s one of the most intriguing players in the 2025 NBA Draft, possessing a well-rounded skill set that fits both traditional and modern molds for NBA bigs.
If Wolf is still available at No. 12 overall, then it would behoove Chicago to take a chance on the untapped potential of a player who can fill perhaps the most significant long-term void on the roster.
The Chicago Bulls are at a critical juncture in their roster rebuild, and all eyes are on the 2025 NBA Draft, where a promising young talent is projected to become the perfect replacement for veteran center Nikola Vucevic. With Vucevic, now 34, no longer fitting the team’s youth-focused trajectory, Danny Wolf has emerged as a surprising candidate, leaving fans stunned.
Danny Wolf – The Hidden Gem of the 2025 NBA Draft
According to Pippen Ain’t Easy, Danny Wolf, a versatile center, is seen as the ideal successor to Vucevic for the Bulls. Projected as the 12th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Wolf brings a modern skill set that blends traditional and contemporary center playstyles. Unlike other highly touted prospects like Khaman Maluach, Derik Queen, or Thomas Sorber, Wolf stands out for his adaptability and immense growth potential.
Wolf, a product of Yale University, is highly regarded for his diverse scoring ability, from long-range shooting to finishing at the rim. He also demonstrates defensive awareness, addressing a frequent criticism of Vucevic. With ideal height and impressive rebounding skills, Wolf promises to bring a fresh dynamic to the Bulls’ frontcourt, aligning with the fast-paced system head coach Billy Donovan is building.
Why Not the Other Names?
While Maluach, with his 7-foot-2 frame and remarkable wingspan, or Queen, with his versatile offensive game, are strong contenders, Wolf is favored for his fit with the Bulls’ philosophy. Maluach’s offensive skills remain limited, while Queen’s smaller stature doesn’t fully meet the demands of a traditional center. Wolf, with his blend of offensive and defensive capabilities and the opportunity to learn from Vucevic in the upcoming season, is seen as a safe yet high-upside choice.
The Bulls’ Future Post-Vucevic
Nikola Vucevic, despite remaining an effective scorer with averages of 19.7 points and 10.4 rebounds in the 2024-25 season, is no longer part of the Bulls’ long-term plans. With his contract expiring in a year, the Bulls are actively exploring trade opportunities for Vucevic to acquire assets like draft picks or young players. Selecting Wolf in the 2025 NBA Draft would be a strategic move, allowing the team to build a young core around players like Josh Giddey, Coby White, and Matas Buzelis while ensuring a seamless transition at the center position.
Conclusion
Danny Wolf may not be the first name Bulls fans think of when considering a replacement for Nikola Vucevic, but his talent and potential are turning heads among analysts. The 2025 NBA Draft promises to be a turning point for the Chicago Bulls, and with Wolf, the team may have found the perfect piece to kick off a new era. Stay tuned to see if this “hidden gem” can shine as expected!
