Buzelis is a huge bright spot in Chicago.
For nearly a decade, Chicago Bulls fans have endured a frustrating stretch of mediocrity. With just one playoff win in the past eight years, no 50-win seasons in over a decade, and a series of perplexing front office decisions, the once-proud franchise has struggled to find its footing. The injury to Lonzo Ball, which derailed a promising roster, only deepened the sense of despair. However, a new beacon of hope has emerged in the form of 20-year-old Matas Buzelis, the Bulls’ 11th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. His rapid development and tantalizing potential signal the dawn of a new era for Chicago basketball—one filled with optimism and excitement.
A Young Core with Promise
The Bulls’ roster is brimming with youthful talent, offering glimmers of hope for a fanbase starved for success. Coby White, at 25, enters the 2025-26 season as the team’s undisputed No. 1 option, coming off a breakout campaign that showcased his scoring prowess and leadership. Josh Giddey, the 22-year-old acquisition, brings versatility and playmaking, poised to prove his worth amid a fresh start in Chicago. Yet, as talented as White and Giddey are, it’s Matas Buzelis who has captured the imagination of Bulls fans and analysts alike. At just 20 years old, the 6-foot-10 forward combines rare size, skill, and upside, positioning him as the cornerstone of Chicago’s future.
Buzelis: The Rising Star
Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes recently dubbed Buzelis the Bulls’ “biggest riser” heading into the new season, and for good reason. His rookie year demonstrated measurable growth, particularly in the second half of the season. Hughes noted, “This isn’t just a blind-faith bet on an obviously talented forward getting better in his second season. It’s also an acknowledgment that Matas Buzelis improved significantly during his rookie year.” The numbers back up this claim, painting a picture of a player who is rapidly unlocking his potential.
Pre-All-Star break, Buzelis posted a true shooting percentage of 55.7%, which climbed to 58.5% post-break. His field goal percentage improved from 44.1% to 46.7%, and his free throw accuracy rose from 79.6% to an impressive 83.3%. While his three-point shooting remained steady at 36.1%, his volume from beyond the arc nearly doubled, jumping from 2.5 to 4.9 attempts per game after transitioning to a larger role. This increased confidence in his long-range shooting highlights his ability to stretch defenses, a critical asset for a player of his size.
The Making of a Point Forward
Before the 2024 NBA Draft, Buzelis was lauded as a “jumbo playmaker,” a forward capable of initiating offense with his vision and ball-handling. However, his playmaking was slow to materialize early in his rookie season, as he averaged just 0.5 assists and 1.8 drives per game in a reserve role. Post-All-Star break, with expanded minutes and a role change, Buzelis showcased his potential as a point forward. His assist average soared to 1.9, and his drives per game jumped to 4.6, all while reducing his turnover rate and improving his efficiency on drives from 42.9% to 46.6%. These improvements underscore his growing comfort as a facilitator and his ability to create offense for himself and others.
A Defensive Presence with Star Potential
Buzelis’ impact extends beyond the offensive end. His 6-foot-10 frame, paired with shot-blocking instincts, makes him a versatile defender capable of guarding multiple positions. His ability to protect the rim, combined with his playmaking and reliable three-point shooting, creates a rare archetype—a modern, two-way wing with star potential. As he continues to refine his skills, Buzelis could become the kind of player who anchors a team on both ends of the floor, a rarity in today’s NBA.
A New Era for Chicago
The Bulls’ recent struggles have tested the patience of even their most loyal fans. The Lonzo Ball injury, in particular, derailed a roster that once showed promise as a playoff contender. Yet, Buzelis’ emergence offers a reason to believe in a brighter future. His tangible improvements, from shooting efficiency to playmaking, signal a player who is not only talented but also dedicated to growth. For a franchise in desperate need of a spark, Buzelis represents more than just a promising prospect—he embodies hope.
As the Bulls prepare for the 2025-26 season, the spotlight will shine brightly on their young core. Coby White and Josh Giddey will play critical roles, but it’s Matas Buzelis who has the potential to redefine the franchise’s trajectory. With his unique blend of size, skill, and versatility, the 20-year-old phenom is ushering in an era of unprecedented optimism. For the first time in years, Chicago Bulls fans have a reason to dream big.