NBA Notes: Wizards, Tristan Vukcevic, Bulls, Zach Collins, Blazers

Wizards

The Wizards are promoting center Tristan Vukcevic from his two-way deal to a three-year, $9 million standard contract, ESPN’s Shams Charania reports. The third year includes a team option.

With roster space available, no corresponding move was required.

Vukcevic, a 2023 second-round pick, had nine games remaining before hitting the 50-game limit for two-way players. He has appeared in 35 games this season, including five starts, averaging 7.9 points and 2.7 rebounds in just over 12 minutes per night.

To replace Vukcevic’s two-way slot, the Wizards are signing wing Leaky Black. Black, who went undrafted out of North Carolina, previously spent time on a two-way with Charlotte and has been a steady presence with the Capital City Go-Go this season.

Bulls

Zach Collins’ season is over.

The Bulls announced the veteran big man will undergo surgery to repair a lingering right toe injury, ending his year. Collins appeared in just 10 games after also missing time earlier with a wrist injury, averaging 9.7 points and 5.6 rebounds.

He will be an unrestricted free agent this summer after completing a two-year, $34.8 million deal and is expected to face a reset market.

The Bulls also said guard Jaden Ivey will be reevaluated in two weeks due to left knee soreness.

Acquired earlier this month, Ivey has averaged 11.5 points in four games with Chicago and will be a restricted free agent unless the team renounces his rights.

Trail Blazers

Portland’s post–All-Star restart couldn’t have gone much worse.

The Blazers were routed 157-103 by Denver, the most points the Nuggets have ever scored in a road game and the most by any team this season.

“One of our worst games of the season,” acting coach Tiago Splitter told reporters. “We were just not ready.”

The Blazers head to Phoenix next, hoping urgency shows up with them.