“The Pistons previously showed interest in [Zach] LaVine over the offseason, but it is not expected that these talks will reignite. Vucevic, on the other hand, is drawing interest from the Warriors, Lakers, Pelicans, and Pistons, sources said” While the Chicago Bulls are allegedly putting out two of their key players for a trade discussion, only one holds the potential to be actually traded. For the Golden State Warriors, Nikola Vucevic’s ability to stretch the floor, his shooting skills, and his overall physical build makes him a valuable prospect to cover for Draymond Green at the Center position. Therefore, the mindset of some people may be taking them towards Vucevic. However, Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy, and others, may allegedly be heading somewhere else.

Earlier today, ClutchPoints reporter Brett Siegel released a report. According to the same, the Warriors have reportedly discussed considering Kelly Olynyk as a potential target of acquisition. Currently serving as the secondary Center for the Toronto Raptors, Olynyk is playing under a 2-year, $26.25 million contract. The same will expire by the next season. Despite this, reports reveal that the Toronto Raptors are open to ‘moving’ the player.

The Raptors’ reason for trading Vucevic may stem from the fact that he has played only 3 games this season. He sidelined himself for the majority of the season due to a back strain that he sustained during the preseason. He reduced his on-court time to an average of 13.7 minutes in the 3 games he played. On top of that, he averaged only 6.3 points, 4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists. As a result, the Raptors may have determined that the 34-year-old’s worth may be reaching a concluding point.

However, for the Warriors, Kelly Olynyk may still stand out as a valuable asset. After all, similarly to Nikola Vucevic, people also know Olynyk for stretching the floor. Doing so, as a big man, reportedly aligns him with Stephen Curry and co’s style of playing. On top of that, being 31 years of age, the player can end up being a veteran prescence, even after Stephen Curry and Draymond Green officially retire.

For the Warriors management, the choice now stands between Olynyk and Vucevic. When listening to opinions of social media users, a case is made for Vucevic with comments like “GP2, Anderson, Trayce and a first for Vucevic”, along with “Get Steph one more piece. Lavine and/or Vucevic and will willingly watch Warriors basketball”. However, Olynyk should not be removed from consideration so easily. After all, if reports are to be believed, than the Chicago Bulls will not allow Vucevic to be send to the Warriors so easily.

NBA reporter highlights that Chicago Bulls have asked a “too high” price for Nikola Vucevic

In early December, Michael Scotto reported that the seeds of discussion for a potential Nikola Vucevic trade had been placed. However, by using multiple unnamed executives as his sources, Scotto has also reported that “Chicago still has asking prices that are “too high” for LaVine and Vucevic, given their contracts. If both players continue their torrid paces, will a playoff contender believe adding either player could be the missing piece to a deep playoff run? That’s the question Chicago is willing to wait for the answer.”

If Vucevic is brought in, the Warriors won’t have a need for either Kevon Looney, or Trayce Jackson-Davis. If that high price isn’t enough, then even Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, or De’Anthony Melton could be added.

Along with fulfilling the need of an efficient center, Vucevic could serve as a smart elbow passer. His love of working out of split cuts could be used efficiently. After all, this skill would help him fit right in with Steve Kerr’s offense strategies. Nikola Vucevic had denied any trade rumors back in September by stating “In most cases, those are really just speculations”. With the passage of time, however, situations can change. Furthermore, since Klay Thompson’s exit, the search for a 3 star has reportedly not stopped yet for the Warriors. Therefore, any change that may take place on this front will be known at least before the February trade deadline.