The Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls put their differences aside and completed a shocking trade in the 2025-26 NBA season. As Nikola Vucevic and Anfernee Simons change organizations, we take a look at the updated lineup for both Eastern Conference’s sides.
After adding Simons to the rotation, the Bulls could now start the following lineup going forward. Simons could enter the team as a point guard, taking over at that position for Ayo Dosunmu. The rest of the lineup could feature Coby White at shooting guard, Matas Buzelis as small forward, Isaac Okoro at power forward, and Patrick Williams filling in for the departing Vucevic at center.
As for the Celtics, Simons’ departure leaves a plethora of options. However, one likely lineup for Joe Mazzulla could feature: Payton Pritchard as PG, Jaylen Brown at SG, Derrick White and Sam Hauser as forwards, and Vucevic could replace Neemias Queta at center. However, due to his current form, Mazzulla may decide to have Vucevic enter from the bench as he arrives in Boston.
Bulls making moves
Currently sitting at 9th place in the East, the Bulls (24-26) are sensing the pressure. Moreover, the whooping 134-91 defeat during their visit to the Miami Heat has put every weakness in Chicago on full display. Therefore, the front office is now stepping in.
Anfernee Simons newest addition to the Bulls
In addition to the trade for Simons—which included a second-round picks swap with the Celtics—the Bulls had made another move in the NBA. Chicago acquired Jaden Ivey and Mike Conley Jr. from the Detroit Pistons and Minnesota Timberwolves, respectively, as part of a three-team trade. In return, the Bulls gave up Dario Saric and Kevin Huerter, who are now with the Pistons.
see also
NBA Rumors: Bulls reportedly encounter setback in Coby White trade talks
Playoff push
The Bulls and Celtics face very different realities in the 2025-26 NBA season. Though Boston is still adjusting to Jayson Tatum’s absence, it boasts a 31-18 record, which puts the Celtics in third place in the East. Barring a disastrous end to the campaign, the Celtics should be a lock to make the postseason.
Meanwhile, the Bulls are struggling to cement themselves in the playoff race. They are currently in possession of a ticket to the NBA Play-In, but more outings like the one on Sunday in Miami, and that will not be a lock whatsoever.
What the Bulls and Celtics hope out of this trade
Chicago hopes this trade puts them in a position to make the playoffs and shock the world. Boston, on the other hand, expects the trade to aid an area of need, as it’s the game in the paint, while Tatum considers and reconsiders whether he returns or sits out this season. Still, even without Tatum, Boston is one team not many wish to come up against in a best-of-7 series.
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