Vooch believes Chicago is a great fit for him and his skillset.
One of the biggest questions the Chicago Bulls face this offseason is whether to bring back starting center Nikola Vucevic, who’s now an unrestricted free agent following the conclusion of a four-year, $100 million deal. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future in the Windy City, the veteran big man said his fit with the Bulls is without question.
“I think I do fit. It’s just took a little time for me to adapt to a new system and my teammates to adapt to playing with me. Sometimes it doesn’t happen right away, and that’s natural,” said Vucevic.
Just a matter of building chemistry
Playing in his second season for the Bulls, the 32-year-old posted identical numbers to his first season in the Windy City—17.6 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. However, he was more efficient and decisive this time around, shooting 52% from the field and a respectable 34% from behind the three-point line. Vooch shared that the improvements came with the experience of playing with DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine.
“I think this year, it showed much better what I’m capable of doing when I’m at my best. I think the more we play together, the better it will be. I feel like I’m a better player just being able to adjust to a whole different system of play, new teammates, new ways, and still be effective without being a No. 1 option, which also shows a lot of growth.”
Better years ahead
Vooch added that he feels good right now. Though he’s getting up there in age and mileage—this was his 12th season in the league—he’s eager to prove that he can still compete with the best.
“I think I’m a much better player than I was when I was 29, 30. And I thought those were my best years. I just feel the way I can impact the game, it’s made me a better player. I think next year, learning from this year, there’s many ways I can still improve.”
Source: si.com
