Matas Buzelis Injury News & Updates
Keep up with the latest injuries from the Bulls vs Trail Blazers game on tomorrow with our National Basketball Association injury report.Nov 17, 2025
Puts up 18 points Sunday
Buzelis recorded 18 points (7-13 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 2-3 FT), six rebounds, one assist, two blocks and one steal across 33 minutes before fouling out of Sunday's 150-147 double-overtime loss to the Jazz.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis was unable to repeat the double-double he posted in the loss to the Pistons on Friday, but at least he posted a third straight game with at least 15 points. The second-year forward continues to emerge as a reliable scoring weapon for Chicago, but some regression could be expected once Coby White, who made his season debut Sunday, returns to the starting lineup and handles his regular workload. Buzelis should remain valuable in all formats, though. He's averaging 14.6 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game in seven outings since the beginning of November.
Nov 12, 2025
Double-doubles with two blocks
Buzelis finished Wednesday's 124-113 loss to the Pistons with 21 points (7-14 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 5-5 FT), 14 rebounds, two assists and two blocks across 34 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Not only was this Buzelis' first double-double of the season and just the second of his career, but he also set a new career-high in rebounding. Unfortunately, all was for naught, as the Bulls conceded a loss to a Pistons team that was missing four of their five regular starters. They'll look to get things back on track Sunday in Utah.
Nov 9, 2025
Struggles vs. Cleveland
Buzelis logged four points (1-6 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 2-2 FT) and four rebounds across 18 minutes during Saturday's 128-122 loss to the Cavaliers.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis has been syndicated as one of the brightest spots for the Bulls in the early stages of the 2025-26 season, but he struggled badly in this one and posted his second-worst scoring mark of the campaign. As a second-year player, Buzelis will still have a few games in which he won't be able to make a significant impact, but more often than not, he's been reliable for Chicago. This four-point performance snapped a six-game streak of games with double-digit points for the forward, and he'll aim to bounce back when the Bulls take on the Spurs on Monday.
Nov 8, 2025
Comes close to double-double
Buzelis chipped in 20 points (8-13 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 2-2 FT), eight rebounds, three assists, one block and two steals across 36 minutes during Friday's 126-110 loss to the Bucks.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis reached the 20-point mark for the third time this season, and the second-year forward continues to show he has the ability to be one of the Bulls' go-to options on offense regularly. Buzelis has scored in double digits in six straight games, averaging 16.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.2 steals per game over that stretch.
Nov 5, 2025
Swats two shots in win
Buzelis ended with 10 points (4-11 FG, 2-4 3Pt), five rebounds, one assist, two blocks and one steal over 30 minutes during Tuesday's 113-111 win over Philadelphia.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis has scored 10+ points in five straight contests, averaging 16.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.8 blocks and 2.8 threes made in that span, shooting 46.9 percent from the field and 50 percent from three. He will look to continue his offensive momentum rolling Friday against the Bucks.
Oct 30, 2025
Lights it up with 27 points
Buzelis logged 27 points (11-18 FG, 4-6 3Pt, 1-1 FT), five rebounds, two assists, one block and two steals in 34 minutes during Wednesday's 126-113 victory over the Kings.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis finished with the third highest scoring total of his career in Chicago's fourth straight win. He was dialed in from beyond the arc, easily marking his best shooting performance of the young season. The second-year lottery pick showed why he could be poised for a breakout year.
Oct 23, 2025
Puts up 21 points in win
Buzelis notched 21 points (7-12 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 7-7 FT), six rebounds, one assist and three blocks across 34 minutes during Wednesday's 115-111 victory over Detroit.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis was in hot demand during fantasy drafts and he certainly lived up to the hype on Opening Night. His starting role was never in doubt heading into the season with Patrick Williams comfortably behind him, and as was the case in the preseason, a lot of the offense ran through the second-year forward. Buzelis appears poised for a potential breakout season as a source of points, three-pointers, rebounds and blocks.
Oct 17, 2025
Scores team-high 19 points
Buzelis tallied 19 points (8-13 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 1-3 FT), two blocks, one rebound, one assist and one steal in 25 minutes during Thursday's preseason win over the Timberwolves.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis put together another strong performance, continuing to flash his tremendous upside. After a slow start to his rookie season, Buzelis finished the 2024-25 season with a bang. It appears as though the coaching staff liked what it saw, with Buzelis primed to play a major role this season.
Oct 15, 2025
Stays hot against Denver
Buzelis produced 20 points (7-12 FG, 3-7 3Pt, 3-3 FT), three rebounds, one assist and five blocks across 30 minutes of Wednesday's 124-117 preseason loss to Denver.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis was everywhere in this game, and he even blocked Nikola Jokic several times in this contest. The second-year forward entered training camp with a ton of buzz, and he's certainly lived up to it in the preseason with averages of 17.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.8 blocks and 2.3 three-pointers in 23.0 minutes across four appearances.
Oct 12, 2025
Scores 19 points in loss
Buzelis put up 19 points (6-11 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 5-5 FT), four rebounds and one turnover in 25 minutes of Sunday's 127-121 preseason loss to the Bucks.
ANALYSIS
Through three preseason games, it's pretty clear that a ton of offense is going to go through Buzelis this season. The second-year forward is averaging 16.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 0.7 blocks and 2.0 three-pointers in 20.6 minutes per contest in that span, showcasing the same upside that made him a top waiver-wire pickup in the second half of the 2024-25 season.
Oct 10, 2025
Scores 11 points in win
Buzelis logged 11 points (3-7 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 3-4 FT), two rebounds, one steal and one block across 19 minutes during Thursday's 119-112 preseason win over the Cavaliers.
ANALYSIS
Once again, Buzelis made a solid impact on both ends of the court in this game. Pegged as a potential breakout player by many in the fantasy community, Buzelis has certainly looked the part so far. Through two exhibitions, Buzelis is averaging 15.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.0 blocks and 2.0 three-pointers in 18.6 minutes per contest while shooting 55.6 percent from the field.
Oct 7, 2025
Nears double-double in win
Buzelis racked up 19 points (7-11 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 3-4 FT), eight rebounds, one assist and one block across 18 minutes during Tuesday's 118-117 preseason win over the Cavaliers.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis made his presence felt during Tuesday's preseason game on the road. He made an impact with his scoring and on the glass while playing limited minutes in Cleveland, as he could be showing signs of an improved all-around game ahead of his second NBA season.
Oct 3, 2025
Team option picked up
The Bulls exercised their 2026-27 rookie scale team option for Buzelis on Friday, Keith Smith of Spotrac.com reports.
ANALYSIS
This is Buzelis' third-year option, and he'll be under contract for next season at $5.7 million. To be clear, this was basically a formality for the franchise. Buzelis has been pegged as a possible breakout candidate and is the current favorite to start at power forward over Patrick Williams.
Jul 18, 2025
Idle in SL finale
Buzelis (rest) did not appear in Friday's 105-92 Summer League win over the Jazz.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis remained sidelined Friday, as the Bulls have taken a careful and deliberate approach to managing his minutes this summer. The forward's last Summer League outing came Monday, when he impressed with 26 points in a 114-105 win over the Pacers.
Jul 17, 2025
Out of action vs. Bucks
Buzelis (rest) didn't play in Wednesday's 102-96 Summer League win over the Bucks.
ANALYSIS
The Bulls have held Buzelis out for rest reasons earlier in the Summer League, and it appears the team is continuing to manage his reps during exhibition play. Given that the 2024 first-rounder is ticketed for a starting role in Chicago's frontcourt for the 2025-26 campaign, the club will likely remain cautious with Buzelis this summer.
Jul 14, 2025
Offensive explosion in SL win
Buzelis finished with 28 points (8-14 FG, 2-4 3Pt, 10-13 FT), five rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block over 32 minutes in Monday's 114-105 Summer League win over the Pacers.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis looked confident Monday, finding success both attacking the rim and getting to the free-throw line. The 20-year-old may be poised for a breakout year after finishing his 2024-25 rookie season on a high note, averaging 13.6 points and 5.0 rebounds on 48.7 percent shooting in 26.9 minutes across his final 22 regular-season games.
Jul 14, 2025
Good to go Monday
Buzelis (rest) will play in Monday's Summer League game against the Pacers, Will Gottlieb of AllCHGO.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis sat out Saturday's game against the Kings, though he'll return for Monday's contest. He appeared in Friday's loss to Toronto, posting 17 points (4-14 FG, 2-8 3Pt, 7-7 FT), five rebounds, two blocks, one assist and one steal across 25 minutes.
Jul 11, 2025
Won't play vs. Sacramento
Buzelis (rest) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Kings, Joel Lorenzi of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis struggled in the shooting department during Friday's game against the Raptors, going 4-for-14 from the floor. However, he still finished with 17 points, hitting all seven of his free-throw attempts. He won't be back on the floor until Monday's matchup against the Pacers due to rest purposes.
Jul 11, 2025
Scores 17 points in SL opener
Buzelis generated 17 points (4-14 FG, 2-8 3Pt, 7-7 FT), five rebounds, an assist, a steal and two blocks over 25 minutes of Friday's 116-72 loss to Toronto in Summer League.
ANALYSIS
Although Buzelis struggled with his shot Friday, he was effective at getting to the free throw line, where he went perfect on seven attempts. He made an impact on the defensive end as well, pacing the Bulls in blocked shots. Entering his second NBA season, Buzelis seems to be competing for a position in the starting five.
Apr 12, 2025
Efficient in victory
Buzelis ended Friday's 119-89 win over Washington with 20 points (7-14 FG, 3-6 3Pt, 3-3 FT), six rebounds, four assists and three blocks across 32 minutes.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis' efficient shooting helped him record double-digit points for his fifth straight outing. Since being inserted into the starting lineup on Feb. 5, the rookie forward is averaging 13.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.1 blocks in 27.2 minutes across 30 appearances.
Apr 7, 2025
Muted performance in win
Buzelis finished with 10 points (4-8 FG, 2-3 3Pt, 0-2 FT), four rebounds, one assist and one block over 24 minutes during Sunday's 131-117 win over the Hornets.
ANALYSIS
This was a quiet game by Buzelis' recent standards. With the Bulls giving the rookie more responsibility, he's been able to take advantage. Over his last seven games, he's been a sixth-round value in nine-category formats with 13.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.7 blocks and 2.3 three-pointers.
Apr 1, 2025
Active at both ends Monday
Buzelis had 14 points (5-12 FG, 2-7 3Pt, 2-2 FT), seven rebounds, one assist, four blocks and one steal in 31 minutes during Monday's 145-117 loss to the Thunder.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis has adjusted well to life as a starter in the NBA, and he's been playing particularly well in recent weeks. He's been putting up solid numbers on offense and has scored in double digits in each of his last five outings, a stretch in which he's averaging 19.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.4 blocks per contest. Plus, the four blocks were also a season-high mark for the rookie, who seems to be getting more and more comfortable on the defensive side of the ball, too.
Mar 30, 2025
Explodes for 28 points in loss
Buzelis supplied 28 points (10-17 FG, 5-7 3Pt, 3-4 FT), nine rebounds, six assists and one block in 38 minutes during Saturday's 120-119 loss to the Mavericks.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis continues to find his footing, especially on the offensive end, scoring at least 28 points for the second time in the past four games. The 38 minutes marked a career-high, a good sign that the coaching staff finally has some level of confidence in him. Across seven games over the past two weeks, he has averaged 15.4 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.6 three-pointers in 26.6 minutes per contest.
Mar 28, 2025
Modest effort in victory
Buzelis ended Thursday's 119-117 win over the Lakers with 12 points (3-10 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 4-5 FT), seven rebounds and one assist in 25 minutes.
ANALYSIS
The rookie first-rounder's playing time has fluctuated, especially now with Patrick Williams back in the mix, but Buzelis has maintained a steady role as a starter following the Zach LaVine trade. Over 13 contests in March, Buzelis has averaged 12.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.9 blocks and 1.6 three-pointers in 25.3 minutes. The 20-year-old remains a work in progress offensively, but he's flashed as a rim protector and figures to continue to start for the Bulls.
Mar 23, 2025
Career-high 31 points in victory
Buzelis produced 31 points (12-18 FG, 5-10 3Pt, 2-2 FT), two rebounds, one assist and one steal across 30 minutes during Saturday's 146-115 win over the Lakers.
ANALYSIS
The rookie returned to the starting five due to Tre Jones (foot) being sidelined, finishing as the club's second-leading scorer behind Coby White (36 points). Buzelis also sank a career-high five three-pointers en route to a career-high mark in points. The 20-year-old will likely continue to receive an increased role while Jones and Lonzo Ball (wrist) are sidelined.
Mar 18, 2025
Productive night in win
Buzelis closed with 17 points (7-13 FG, 3-7 3Pt), nine rebounds, two assists and one block across 30 minutes during Monday's 111-97 victory over Utah.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis finished with the club's third-highest mark in points Monday, and he recorded at least 15 points for the eighth time over 66 regular-season appearances. Additionally, the rookie forward tied his season high in rebounds Monday. Buzelis has been a mainstay in the starting five of late, and he has scored double-digit points in seven of his last 10 outings.
Mar 14, 2025
Struggles in limited run Thursday
Buzelis posted six points (2-7 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 2-2 FT), three rebounds and one assist over 15 minutes during Thursday's 116-110 victory over Brooklyn.
ANALYSIS
The rookie first-round pick has been less involved over his last two outings as a result of Patrick Williams returning from a nine-game absence due to a quadricep injury. Buzelis has accumulated only 14 points, seven rebounds and two assists while shooting 6-for-16 from the field across 39 total minutes in that two-game span. In the 20-year-old forward's previous five matchups, he had averaged 13.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.0 blocks across 29.4 minutes per contest. Williams and Julian Phillips could continue to take more minutes away from the rookie, though Buzelis will likely still carry a significant role regardless.
Mar 5, 2025
Hits for 17 against Cavs
Buzelis recorded 17 points (7-17 FG, 1-7 3Pt, 2-2 FT), seven rebounds, three assists and one block over 31 minutes during Tuesday's 139-117 loss to the Cavaliers.
ANALYSIS
The 11th overall pick in the 2024 Draft has adapted well to his new starting role. Over 11 games since shifting into the starting five, Buzelis is averaging 12.7 points, 4.1 boards, 2.4 assists, 1.2 threes and 0.8 blocks in 27.2 minutes a contest, and the 20-year-old has plenty of room for growth in his production and skills -- he's shooting just 44.3 percent from the floor and 23.6 percent from three-point range during that stretch.
Mar 2, 2025
Full stat line Sunday
Buzelis registered 18 points (8-16 FG, 2-6 3Pt), six rebounds, three assists, one block and one steal over 30 minutes during Sunday's 127-112 loss to Indiana.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis provided a balanced output in his 10th start of the season, continuing to build on a promising month of February. The rookie first-rounder remains a work in progress on both ends of the floor, but the 24-37 Bulls could be inclined to allow him to stick with the starting lineup going forward. As a member of Chicago's first unit, Buzelis has averaged 12.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.8 blocks and 1.2 three-pointers in 26.8 minutes but is shooting just 25.0 percent from deep.
Feb 25, 2025
Posts solid line
Buzelis notched 17 points (6-17 FG, 1-6 3Pt, 4-4 FT), three rebounds, five assists and one block in 36 minutes during Monday's 142-110 victory over the 76ers.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis did not have an efficient night by any means, but his fantasy managers will be encouraged by the bump in usage -- Nikola Vucevic (calf) sat this game out and is likely day-to-day. With Patrick Williams (knee) going to miss more time, Buzelis is going to have plenty of opportunity to put up fantasy numbers. Through nine February outings, Buzelis is averaging 14.0 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.0 blocks and 1.7 three-pointers.
Feb 12, 2025
Scores team-high 12 points
Buzelis totaled 12 points (5-7 FG, 2-2 3Pt), one rebound and one assist across 19 minutes during Tuesday's 132-92 loss to the Pistons.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis remained in the starting lineup, leading the Bulls with 12 points. Only two players scored double-digits as Chicago turned in arguably the worst performance by any team this season. Ignoring this game, Buzelis has been trending in the right direction of late and appears as though he is going to play upwards of 30 minutes per game moving forward.
Feb 9, 2025
Continues excellent play
Buzelis finished Saturday's 132-111 loss to the Warriors with 16 points (6-10 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 3-4 FT), four rebounds, five assists, one block and one steal in 29 minutes.
ANALYSIS
After scoring in single digits in 23 straight games, Buzelis has reached the double-digit plateau in six straight games. During that stretch, the rookie has averaged 15.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.7 blocks in 27.2 minutes per game while shooting 62.3 percent from the field. Buzelis has drawn back-to-back starts and played at least 29 minutes in three consecutive contests.
Feb 6, 2025
Strong performance in start
Buzelis logged 14 points (4-10 FG, 0-4 3Pt, 6-9 FT), five rebounds, one assist, three blocks and two steals across 29 minutes during Wednesday's 127-108 loss to the Timberwolves.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis received the first start of his career, sliding in for Lonzo Ball who was resting on the second night of a back-to-back. Having upped his production of late, Buzelis made the most of his promotion, delivering another strong two-way performance. With the Bulls positioned towards the bottom of the standings once again, the hope is that Buzelis will now be able to hold onto a significant role for the remainder of the season.
Feb 5, 2025
First career start Wednesday
Buzelis is in the starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the Timberwolves.
ANALYSIS
With Lonzo Ball (knee) taking a seat Wednesday. Buzelis will draw his first career start with the Bulls. The rookie forward has averaged 15.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.5 blocks and 2.5 threes in 26.1 minutes over his last four games, and he's set for a boost in playing time against Minnesota.
Feb 5, 2025
Perfect performance against Miami
Buzelis contributed 24 points (10-10 FG, 4-4 3Pt), three rebounds and two blocks across 31 minutes off the bench during Tuesday's 133-124 win over the Heat.
ANALYSIS
The 11th overall pick in the 2024 Draft set a new career scoring high while tying his previous best in made threes as part of a perfect shooting night. Rather than hitting the proverbial rookie wall, Buzelis may be getting stronger as the season progresses -- he's played 20-plus minutes in five straight games, the first time he's seen that consistent a workload, and he's turned the opportunity into 13.8 points, 4.2 boards, 2.2 threes and 1.2 blocks a contest while shooting an eye-popping 71.1 percent from the floor and 61.1 percent (11-for-18) from beyond the arc. Especially if Nikola Vucevic gets moved before Thursday's trade deadline, the 6-foot-10 Buzelis is making a strong case to get a look in the starting five for a Bulls team in need of some length up front.
Feb 2, 2025
Leader off bench in defeat
Buzelis posted 12 points (5-9 FG, 2-5 3Pt), three rebounds and one assist in 26 minutes during Sunday's 127-119 loss to the Pistons.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis provided a spark off the Bulls bench in Sunday's contest, leading all second unit players in scoring and threes made while hauling in a trio of rebounds in a bench-leading minute total. Buzelis has connected on at least two threes in 11 outings, including in three straight contests. He has now surpassed the double-digit mark in seven appearances and in three straight outings.
Feb 1, 2025
Another double-digit scoring outing
Buzelis totaled 12 points (4-8 FG, 2-4 3Pt, 2-2 FT), seven rebounds and three blocks in 26 minutes during Friday's 122-106 victory over the Raptors.
ANALYSIS
Zach LaVine's (personal) absence has opened up more usage on the Bulls over the past two games. Julian Phillips was also a DNP-Coach's Decision in this game, opening up some more time on the wing. Both factors have contributed to Buzelis scoring double-digit points in back-to-back games for just the second time in this rookie season, totaling 24 points, 11 rebounds and four blocks in 48 minutes. Trade rumors about LaVine and veteran center Nikola Vucevic ahead of Thursday's trade deadline make Buzelis an interesting fantasy basketball stash option. Though the rookie hasn't had many standout performances, he's been steadily racking up minutes and showing off his athleticism. Maybe the most intriguing part of Buzelis profile at the moment is his defensive upside, as he's averaging 2.2 blocks and 0.6 steals per 36 minutes. He's combining that with 14.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.2 threes and 1.2 assists per 36.
Jan 26, 2025
Efficient in limited run
Buzelis accumulated six points (2-2 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 1-2 FT) and three rebounds over 12 minutes during Saturday's 109-97 loss to the 76ers.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis received fewer than 20 minutes of playing time for the 16th consecutive contest. With the Bulls likely to be sellers ahead of the trade deadline, the 20-year-old could be in line for more playing time in the latter half of the season. Over his last five outings, Buzelis has averaged 4.6 points and 2.8 rebounds in 11.0 minutes per contest.
Jan 16, 2025
Ties career-high three blocks
Buzelis posted eight points (4-8 FG, 0-3 3Pt), five rebounds and three blocks across 17 minutes during Wednesday's 110-94 loss to the Hawks.
ANALYSIS
Although Buzelis hasn't scored double-digit points since Dec. 5, the rookie forward is making a strong defensive impact, recording multiple blocks in 10 separate outings this season. Still, Buzelis' overall efficiency is concerning since he's shooting just 38.1 percent from the field in 2024-25.
Jan 4, 2025
Returns to parent club
The Bulls recalled Buzelis from the G League's Windy City Bulls on Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis recorded 21 points (8-24 FG, 1-8 3Pt, 3-5 FT), nine rebounds, five blocks, four assists and one steal in 34 minutes during Friday's 98-95 loss to the Texas Legends. Buzelis should continue to operate as one of Chicago's primary bench options in their forward rotation.
Dec 28, 2024
Good to go Saturday
Buzelis (illness) is available for Saturday's game against the Bucks, Will Gottlieb of AllCHGO.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis will return Saturday from a one-game absence due to an illness. The rookie first-round pick has seen his minutes off the bench increase over his last 15 games, during which he has averaged 7.5 points and 3.3 rebounds over 17.5 minutes per contest.
Dec 27, 2024
Iffy to face Milwaukee
Buzelis (illness) is questionable to face the Bucks on Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis missed the loss to the Hawks on Thursday due to an illness, and the questionable tag ahead of Saturday's contest doesn't clarify his status. As such, a decision will likely be made closer to Saturday's 8 p.m. ET tipoff. Buzelis is averaging 7.7 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game since the beginning of December while experiencing an uptick in his minutes off the bench.
Dec 26, 2024
Won't play Thursday
Buzelis (illness) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against Atlanta, Chuck Swirsky of the Bulls Radio Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis will miss his second game of the season due to the illness, and his next chance to suit up will come Saturday against Milwaukee. With the rookie joining Lonzo Ball (illness), Ayo Dosunmu (Achilles) and Josh Giddey (ankle) on the sideline, Talen Horton-Tucker and Dalen Terry are candidates for increased roles
Dec 26, 2024
Questionable against Atlanta
Buzelis is listed as questionable for Thursday's game versus the Hawks due to an illness.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis has become a consistent member of Chicago's rotation, averaging 7.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.1 blocks in 17.9 minutes in nine appearances since the beginning of December. If the rookie forward is unable to suit up against Atlanta, Julian Phillips, Torrey Craig and Dalen Terry are candidates to receive increased playing time.
Dec 17, 2024
Plays only 13 minutes
Buzelis registered seven points (3-5 FG, 1-2 3Pt), four rebounds and one assist over 13 minutes during Monday's 122-121 victory over the Raptors.
ANALYSIS
Despite Zach LaVine (back) missing Monday's contest, Buzelis saw his fewest minutes since Nov. 29. Over his last six appearances, the rookie has averaged 9.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.3 blocks in 19.3 minutes per game. However, with Patrick Williams back in action and LaVine not expected to miss significant time, Buzelis' role may continue to shrink.
Dec 6, 2024
Will play Friday
Buzelis (nose) is available for Friday's game against the Pacers, Will Gottlieb of AllCHGO.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis suffered a nose contusion, and while he didn't suffer a fracture, there's a chance he'll wear a mask Friday. Buzelis has been earning more minutes of late, and he's averaging 9.8 points, 4.8 rebounds and 0.8 blocks across 17.6 minutes per game across his last five outings. He posted a career-high 20 points as recently as Dec. 2 in a win over the Nets.
Dec 6, 2024
Questionable Friday
Buzelis is listed as questionable for Friday's matchup against the Pacers due to a nasal contusion.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis is in jeopardy of missing his second game of the season due to the nose injury. The rookie has begun to carve out a significant role in the rotation as of late, and in his last five outings he averaged 9.8 points, 4.8 rebounds and 0.8 blocks across 17.6 minutes per game.
Dec 3, 2024
Sets new career-high scoring mark
Buzelis supplied 20 points (7-10 FG, 4-5 3Pt, 2-2 FT), five rebounds, one assist and two blocks in 22 minutes during Monday's 128-102 victory over the Nets.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis scored in double digits just for the third time this season, and the rookie relied on the efficiency of his shot to reach the 20-point mark for the first time in 2024-25. Buzelis is trending in the right direction and not only for this scoring output, as he's logged at least 20 minutes in four of his last six appearances off the bench.
Nov 23, 2024
Delivers career-high mark in loss
Buzelis recorded 14 points (6-13 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 0-1 FT), three rebounds, one assist and one block in 29 minutes during Saturday's 142-131 loss to the Grizzlies.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis scored in double digits just for the second time this season, and this was the rookie's best scoring mark of the campaign. As good as he looked Saturday, Buzelis' playing time has been inconsistent, and he's played more than 15 minutes just five times all season long. That's enough reason to avoid rostering Buzelis in most formats, as he doesn't see enough time to be a valuable fantasy contributor in most formats.
Nov 23, 2024
Meaningful role Friday
Buzelis provided nine points (3-8 FG, 1-4 3Pt, 2-2 FT), four rebounds, two blocks and one steal across 20 minutes during Friday's 136-122 win over the Hawks.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis played at least 20 minutes for the first time in more than two weeks, a welcome sign for Bulls fans. With Patrick Williams sidelined due to a foot injury, head coach Billy Donovan went on record stating that he expects Buzelis to play more for the time being. We are yet to see a lot from the rookie but the next could of games could be a great opportunity for him to push for a more sizeable role moving forward.
Nov 17, 2024
Dominant in G League loss
Buzelis produced 24 points (11-21 FG, 2-8 3Pt), 10 rebounds and two assists across 34 minutes during Saturday's 119-115 G league loss to the Motor City Cruise.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis briefly joined Windy City for its matchup against the Cruise, during which the rookie led the squad in points, rebounds and three-pointers made. The 20-year-old has produced a limited impact with the parent club this season, in which he has averaged 2.8 points and 2.0 rebounds across 8.5 minutes per game over 12 regular-season appearances.
Nov 16, 2024
Briefly headed back to G League
The Bulls assigned Buzelis to the Windy City Bulls of the G League on Saturday. He will play in Saturday's game versus the Motor City Cruise and then be recalled to the NBA.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis was drafted No. 11 overall by the Bulls in the 2024 NBA Draft but is averaging just 2.8 points and 2.0 rebounds in 8.5 minutes across 12 NBA appearances. The rookie forward should receive increased playing time in the G League.
Nov 3, 2024
Recalled to NBA
Chicago recalled Buzelis from the G League's Windy City Bulls on Monday, Will Gottlieb of AllCHGO.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis will likely spend periodic time in the G League to continue his development, as he's currently not a major fixture in Chicago's rotation. He's yet to play more than 10 minutes in a regular-season game, averaging 5.6 minutes across five appearances.
Nov 2, 2024
Sent to G League
The Bulls assigned Buzelis to the Windy City Bulls of the G League on Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis is averaging just 1.0 points in 5.6 minutes across his five NBA appearances this season. The rookie forward should receive increased opportunities with Chicago's G League affiliate.
Oct 18, 2024
Good to go Friday
Buzelis (shin) is available for Friday's preseason game, Will Gottlieb of AllCHGO.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis will return to action Friday after missing Chicago's previous preseason outing with a shin contusion. The rookie forward is expected to be one of the team's primary bench options in 2024-25.
Oct 16, 2024
Out with shin injury
Buzelis won't play in Wednesday's preseason game against Minnesota due to a shin contusion, Will Gottlieb of AllCHGO.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis won't suit up Wednesday, joining Ayo Dosunmu (rest/shoulder), Julian Phillips (ribs) and Dalen Terry (knee soreness) in street clothes. Buzleis dropped 15 points and six rebounds in Chicago's most recent preseason tilt. His next chance to play will come Friday against Cleveland.
Oct 15, 2024
Goes for 15 points Monday
Buzelis finished with 15 points (5-13 FG, 3-9 3Pt, 2-3 FT), two rebounds and two assists across 22 minutes off the bench in Monday's 111-107 preseason loss to the Bucks.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis struggled a bit with his shot, but the rookie has been finding ways to produce when given the opportunity. He's slated to open the season on a bench role, but if things go south for the Bulls as the campaign progresses, don't rule out the possibility of Buzelis seeing an increased role in the coming months.
Jul 15, 2024
Goes for 28 in SL
Buzelis posted 28 points (10-22 FG, 4-8 3Pt, 4-5 FT), five rebounds and two steals in 33 minutes during Sunday's 92-82 loss to the Warriors in Summer League.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis expanded upon his 15-point performance against the Bucks on Saturday with a 28-point outburst Sunday against Golden State. Buzelis was able to find his shot Sunday, tying for a game-high four three-pointers made after missing all four attempts in his previous outing. The 11th overall pick could see a substantial role for the Bulls this season with their uncertainty across the roster.
Jul 13, 2024
Scores 15 points in win
Buzelis notched 15 points (4-15 FG, 0-4 3Pt, 7-11 FT) with seven rebounds, two assists and two blocks in Saturday's 96-89 win over the Bucks in the Summer League.
ANALYSIS
The No. 11 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Buzelis could potentially have a lot of opportunity during his rookie season with the Bulls recently moving on from DeMar DeRozan. Buzelis' playmaking ability combined with his size at 6-foot-9 makes him very intriguing, but he will have to improve his jumper after struggling in that regard with the G League Ignite last season.
Jun 26, 2024
Selected by Chicago at No. 11
Buzelis was selected with the No. 11 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Bulls.
ANALYSIS
Buzelis is a versatile wing with nice size at 6-foot-9. There's some point-forward upside to his game due to his natural feel as a passer and his ability to make plays in transition. He struggled shooting with the G League Ignite, however, going 24-for-88 (27%) from three and 38-of-56 (68%) from the charity stripe. Improving in that area will be crucial for him to realize his potential. As a defender, he's a mixed bag, able to clean up for his teammates as a weak-side helper but not necessarily a great one-on-one stopper. Buzelis may not be a massive impact player out of the gate in Chicago, but he should have a chance to play real minutes and iron out his game.