Successful Surgery for Vucevic to
Boston Celtics center Nikola Vucevic underwent successful ORIF surgery to stabilize a fracture in his right ring finger, the team announced Saturday. According to the Celtics’ official page and multiple reports, Vucevic will be reevaluated in three to four weeks, after which a timeline for his return will be determined.
Injury Details
The injury occurred early in Friday night’s 120-100 win over the Dallas Mavericks, with Vucevic leaving just two minutes into the first quarter. X-rays confirmed the fracture, and he was immediately ruled out. The veteran center had played only 12 games for Boston since being acquired in a trade from the Chicago Bulls before the deadline.
Nikola Vucevic is OUT After a Non-Contact Injury. 🚨
🤕 Finger fractures are usually a tedious process to heal, taking up to 4 Weeks to fully heal the bone. Expect Vucevic to take 2-5 Weeks after surgery (Potentially).
📈 Nikola Played Only 2 Minutes before leaving Vs the Mavs. pic.twitter.com/1hc442xhvQ
— BallersCulture (@BallersCultureX) March 7, 2026
Impact on Celtics’ Rotation
Vucevic has averaged 10.4 points and 7.2 rebounds in 21.7 minutes per game since joining Boston, providing valuable depth in the frontcourt alongside Neemias Queta and Luka Garza. His absence comes at a time when the Celtics are reintegrating superstar Jayson Tatum, who returned Friday after missing 10 months with a torn Achilles. The loss of Vucevic reduces Boston’s veteran presence in the paint, forcing younger centers into larger roles.
Timing and Outlook
The Celtics emphasized that Vucevic’s surgery was successful and that updates will be provided as appropriate. While the reevaluation window is set at 3-4 weeks, recovery timelines for finger fractures can vary depending on healing and rehabilitation progress. Boston will likely lean on its depth and adjust rotations until Vucevic is cleared to return.
What’s Next
Boston continues its push in the Eastern Conference playoff race, and Vucevic’s absence will test the team’s frontcourt depth. His return, expected around mid-April if recovery goes smoothly, could provide a boost heading into the postseason.
This injury underscores the challenges of roster stability late in the season, but the Celtics remain optimistic given the successful procedure and the expected reevaluation timeline.
