Nikola Vucevic described his performance in Boston’s 124-105 win over the Chicago Bulls as a step forward. “Tonight was a good step forward of where we can get to and I felt a lot more comfortable out there,” he said.
The center highlighted the importance of preparation in adjusting to a new team. “Just a preparation standpoint helped a lot… have more reps. Before that I had walkthroughs and shootarounds, it was just a lot at once,” Vucevic explained.
Vucevic also emphasized building chemistry with his new teammates. “I think the guys felt more comfortable around me and we’re able to build some good chemistry,” he added. The performance marked his second double-double in three games since the trade deadline, finishing with 19 points, 11 rebounds, and four three-pointers.
Facing his former team brought mixed emotions. “Been there five years… it’s always a weird feeling. It was great to see all those people… it was fun to win the game,” Vucevic said. He noted that several of his former teammates were not playing due to trades or injuries.
The center explained the adjustment to the Celtics’ detailed system. “Joe [Mazzulla] is very detailed… the biggest thing is learning to adjust throughout the game. He does more adjustments on both ends, switches up matchups and defenses,” Vucevic said.
Vucevic credited assistant coach Emil Jefferson for easing the transition. “Mainly with Emil… we were teammates in Orlando for about a year and a half. It was a familiar face and helped me a lot, made me more comfortable,” he said.
The Celtics’ commitment to helping him integrate also impressed Vucevic. “When they came back from the trip, they all came straight to the facility to do a walkthrough and watch film with me… it shows they really care,” he said.
Looking ahead to the All-Star break, Vucevic sees an opportunity to regroup. “It could help a little bit… a lot thrown at you with the trade and new city. Gives me time to study, watch film, and refresh for the end of the year,” he explained.
Vucevic also noted the continuity in his relationship with Jefferson. “Because of the relationship we had before, as friends, it translated… pretty smooth. First day they came back we went to dinner so I could ask him questions about the Celtics,” he said.
Boston shot 52 percent from the field and 40 percent from three-point range, with Payton Pritchard scoring 26 points and Jaylen Brown adding 24. Boston also dominated the boards 48-34, with Derrick White contributing nine assists and two blocks.
