UPDATE: The Chicago Bulls are under pressure to elevate forward Matas Buzelis to star status as the NBA season progresses. With just 26 games into his sophomore year, Bulls management recognizes the urgency for Buzelis to step up and prove himself as a key player.
As the February trade deadline approaches, the Bulls must prioritize Buzelis’ development over other concerns like competitive integrity and playoff positioning. Currently, Buzelis averages 13.4 points, ranking seventh among his draft class. However, his potential is not translating to consistent performances, raising alarms for the franchise.
In the 2024 NBA draft class, Buzelis was selected with the 11th overall pick, a solid choice compared to other rookies like Alex Sarr (No. 2) and Stephon Castle (No. 4), who are making significant impacts. Buzelis also ranks fifth in blocks and tenth in rebounds, showcasing his versatility but struggling to shine consistently.
Coach Billy Donovan is emphasizing specific expectations for Buzelis, including improving his rebounding and defensive skills. “We’ve put a huge emphasis for him to get to the boards on both ends,” Donovan stated. “It’s a good learning curve for him, and I anticipated the ups and downs.” The coach believes that Buzelis’ performance must improve for the Bulls to avoid a bleak future, as fans are growing restless.
However, it’s not just about development; the Bulls must find ways to integrate Buzelis more effectively into their offensive plans. In the 16 games without teammate Coby White, Buzelis’ scoring averages rise to 14.1 points per game, including five games with over 20 points. In contrast, his performance dips to 12.3 points with White on the court, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that leverages both players’ strengths.
There is a fear that Buzelis could fall into a pattern similar to former Bulls player Lauri Markkanen, who thrived in absence but struggled alongside key teammates. To prevent this, the Bulls must focus on making Buzelis a central figure in offensive plays, rather than sidelining him.
The urgency for Buzelis to elevate his game cannot be overstated. With the potential of only retaining Josh Giddey and Buzelis as starters next season, the franchise’s future hinges on Buzelis’ ability to develop into a star. Fans need this transformation to turn their current apathy into excitement, as the Bulls navigate a competitive league.
As the season progresses, all eyes are on Buzelis. The organization must invest in his growth, as he represents the Bulls’ best chance at securing star power for years to come. Expect to see more strategic plays designed specifically for him moving forward, especially as the trade deadline approaches.
