Celtics' Nikola Vucevic Poised for Debut Against Heat

Trade deadline acquisition awaits first game with new team

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The Boston Celtics' big trade deadline acquisition, center Nikola Vucevic, is expected to make his debut with the team on Friday night against the Miami Heat. Vucevic was traded from the Chicago Bulls to the Celtics in exchange for Anfernee Simons, and his addition should bolster Boston's frontcourt as they make a push for the playoffs.

Why it matters

Vucevic is a skilled big man who can provide scoring, rebounding, and playmaking for the Celtics. His presence should help offset the loss of Jayson Tatum, who is sidelined with an Achilles injury. Vucevic's debut also comes at an important time, as the Celtics look to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference standings.

The details

In 48 games this season with the Bulls, Vucevic has averaged 16.9 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. The Celtics are hoping he can provide a consistent interior presence and complement their perimeter-oriented attack. Vucevic's first game against his former team, the Bulls, is scheduled for next Wednesday at TD Garden.

  • Vucevic is expected to make his Celtics debut on Friday, February 6, 2026 against the Miami Heat.
  • The Celtics will host Vucevic's former team, the Chicago Bulls, on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Nikola Vucevic

A skilled big man who was traded from the Chicago Bulls to the Boston Celtics at the 2026 NBA trade deadline.

Anfernee Simons

A young guard who was traded from the Boston Celtics to the Chicago Bulls as part of the deal that brought Nikola Vucevic to Boston.

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What they’re saying

“As long as he stays healthy and plays, he won't have to wait very long to play his former team, the Bulls, as the Celtics host Chicago on Wednesday night next week.”

— Noa Dalzell, Celtics reporter (sportingnews.com)

What’s next

Vucevic's debut with the Celtics will be closely watched, as the team looks to integrate him into their lineup and make a strong push for the playoffs. His first matchup against his former Bulls team on February 12th will also be an intriguing storyline to follow.

The takeaway

The addition of Nikola Vucevic at the trade deadline is a significant move for the Boston Celtics, as they look to bolster their frontcourt and make a deep playoff run. Vucevic's skill set and experience should provide a valuable complement to the Celtics' perimeter-oriented attack, and his debut on Friday against the Heat will be an important first step in his integration with the team.