Bulls’ Matas Buzelis Emerges as a Rising Star in Play-In Game

CHICAGO, Ill. — Matas Buzelis, the Chicago Bulls‘ rookie forward, is ready to showcase his skills in a pivotal play-in game against the Miami Heat on Wednesday at the United Center. Initially struggling for minutes at the start of the NBA season, the 20-year-old first-round pick from the 2024 draft faced considerable self-doubt after being sent down to the G League.

“I was thinking, ‘Am I good enough? Can I compete with these guys?’” Buzelis admitted after practice on Tuesday. Despite those initial uncertainties, he quickly proved himself. After a successful stint in the G League, where he averaged 13 points and 4.5 rebounds over 31 games, Buzelis emerged as a key player for the Bulls following the mid-season trade of superstar Zach LaVine.

“It was tough for me at first, of course,” Buzelis said, reflecting on his journey. “But these challenges come with being successful. I didn’t take it personally.” His time in the G League, he noted, helped him adjust his game and proved he belonged in the NBA.

Now a starter, and with LaVine gone, Buzelis’s role has become more critical as the Bulls head into the playoffs with a recent record of 15-5. Coach Billy Donovan has praised his growth and contribution. “Matas has really grown; it’s good to see him develop the way he has,” Donovan said. “This team is different, and Buzelis has taken his game to another level.”

In addition to his scoring prowess, Buzelis has provided much-needed defense and rim protection, elements that were lacking when LaVine was in the lineup. He notched a personal-best 24 points in a game against the Heat on February 4, shooting a perfect 10-for-10 from the field.

As anticipation builds for the play-in game, Buzelis’s performance against the Heat could mark a significant moment in his budding career. He has been lauded not just for his skills but for his mindset and determination. Buzelis credits Donovan’s coaching for keeping him focused and accountable throughout his development.

“I feel I can always be better, and he feels I can too,” Buzelis said, further underscoring the trust he has in Donovan’s guidance. “It’s all about managing the challenges.”

Despite the intense pressure of a do-or-die scenario, Buzelis is ready to take on the challenge. “I’ve grown into a player who doesn’t fear anything and is ready for whatever,” he declared. As the Bulls take the court on Wednesday, fans will eagerly watch to see how the young forward rises to the occasion.

Whether Buzelis’s journey continues into the postseason will depend on his ability to perform under duress, proving that he not only belongs in the NBA but is destined to be a major contributor for years to come.