Performance Surge
Matas Buzelis has emerged as a promising talent for the Chicago Bulls during the latter part of the season. Since February, the rookie has consistently scored in double figures in 18 of his 24 contests, helping propel the team to a notable 9–3 run over their recent 12 games. His contributions have already been integral to several key victories, marking him as a potential cornerstone for a future dynasty.
Standout Moments
Among his memorable performances, a high-stakes game against a storied Los Angeles team showcased Buzelis’ all-around impact. In nearly 25 minutes on the court, he recorded 12 points, seven rebounds, and an assist during a dramatic, last-second win. However, his most impressive outing came against Dallas, where he logged 37 minutes of play. In that matchup, Buzelis scored 28 points—his second-highest career total behind a 31-point performance just a week earlier—while shooting efficiently at 10-of-17 from the floor and 5-of-7 from beyond the arc. He rounded out his game with nine rebounds, six assists, and a block, while only committing two turnovers.
Seasonal Impact and Shooting Concerns
Averaging 8.1 points and 3.3 rebounds per game this season, Buzelis’ shooting percentages of 44.3% from the field and 34.6% from three-point range are indicative of steady progress at the NBA level. Prior concerns over his shooting, a point of scrutiny throughout his recruitment as a 5-star prospect, have not entirely been silenced this season. Nevertheless, his emerging consistency suggests that he is on the path to becoming a dependable shooter, an asset that could elevate his role within the team further.
Prospects for the Future
Before joining the Bulls, Buzelis was recognized as one of the top prospects in the country—a standout rated as the No. 7 overall prospect and the No. 3 small forward nationally. His time with the high-profile G League Ignite, during the organization’s final season before its dissolution, provided both challenges and learning opportunities in a system brimming with talent. With his impressive size, ball-handling abilities, and innate feel for the game, Buzelis has already shown signs of being a formidable NBA player. His recent performances have kindled optimism among Bulls’ fans, underscoring his potential to be a foundational piece for the franchise’s future ambitions.
