Matas Buzelis is emerging as a key figure in the Chicago Bulls’ playoff pursuit. The 21-year-old forward, standing at 6 feet 10 inches, is capturing the attention of fans with his impressive athleticism and remarkable dunks. His performance throughout his rookie season has positioned him as a potential contender for the Most Improved Player award.
Buzelis’ Rise in the NBA
As a former No. 11 overall draft pick, Buzelis showcased his talent by averaging 13.4 points per game in April, with an impressive shooting percentage of 54.8% from the field and 50% from three-point range. His contributions also included an average of 1.4 blocks and 1.1 steals per game, helping the Bulls achieve a 6-1 record during that month.
Goals for the Upcoming Season
Entering his second season, Buzelis has set high aspirations for both himself and the team. He declared, “Individually, I want to win Most Improved Player. As a team, I want to win a championship.” His determination reflects his commitment to succeed despite the team’s underwhelming expectations.
Inspiration from Tracy McGrady
Buzelis looks up to NBA legend Tracy McGrady, known for his exceptional scoring ability. Drawing inspiration from McGrady’s skillset, Buzelis stated, “I would try to put everything into the box, shake it up, and see what I can create.” This philosophy emphasizes his adaptable approach to the game.
Impact on the Bulls’ Performance
In the recent 2025-26 season opener, the Bulls triumphed over the Detroit Pistons, 115-111. Buzelis played a vital role, contributing 21 points and six rebounds in 34 minutes. His performance is crucial as the Bulls aim for their second playoff appearance since the 2017-18 season.
Support from Josh Giddey
The Bulls’ success hinges on the development of point guard Josh Giddey, who has solidified his reputation with exceptional playmaking skills. Acquired from the Oklahoma City Thunder, Giddey averaged 7.2 assists and 8.1 rebounds per game in the last season. His presence and a four-year, $100 million contract underline his importance to the franchise.
- Giddey’s shooting accuracy improved significantly, hitting 37.8% of his three-point attempts.
- Buzelis compared Giddey’s basketball IQ to Hall of Famer Magic Johnson, highlighting his unique skill set as a 6-foot-8 point guard.
Team Dynamics and Future Potential
The Bulls are employing a fast-paced style of play, drawing inspiration from successful teams like the Indiana Pacers. This strategic approach has positioned them among the top in scoring and pace in the league. Buzelis expressed confidence in the team’s ability to contend for the championship with their current offensive strategy.
Emerging Talents
The team’s roster includes promising rookie Noa Essengue. Although he did not play in the season opener, Buzelis believes Essengue has significant potential, particularly on the defensive end. He commented on Essengue’s work ethic, emphasizing the importance of defense as a foundation for overall growth.
Personal Significance of Playing for the Bulls
For Buzelis, playing for the Chicago Bulls represents a dream come true. He expressed that it means “everything” to him to be part of his hometown team. His journey to the Bulls is seen as a blessing, and he is determined to make a significant impact on the franchise.
As Matas Buzelis continues to develop, his aspirations for the Most Improved Player title and a championship reflect a positive outlook for both him and the Chicago Bulls in their playoff pursuit.
