Vucevic returns to Orlando seeking one more push

Nikola Vucevic is back where his NBA story truly took shape, signing a one‑year minimum contract to reunite with the Orlando Magic. After nine seasons that made him an All‑Star and a franchise cornerstone, the veteran center returns following stints in Chicago and a brief stop in Boston. Vucevic explained that the decision was shaped by familiarity, family comfort and belief in a Magic team eager to win under new coach Sweeney.

His comeback contrasts with the 2021 trade that sent him to the Bulls, yet his productivity never dipped: even at 36, he remains a reliable interior presence. With more than 1,058 NBA games and 22 playoff appearances, he has often been linked to a European finale, but he insists the NBA is still his focus. Asked whether 2026‑27 might be his last season, he smiled it off, signaling he intends to keep going. Orlando is home again, and his journey continues.