Matas Buzelis accumulated 15 points (4-of-15 FGs, 7-of-11 FTs), seven rebounds, two assists, and two steals in 29 minutes in Saturday’s win over the Bucks.
Buzelis will have better days shooting the basketball, but the Bulls had to be pleased with his aggressiveness on the offensive end of the floor. Does DeMar DeRozan’s exit mean the rookie will be a starter from Day One? That remains to be seen. With DeRozan, Alex Caruso, and Andre Drummond all moving on, it’s clear (on paper) that the Bulls are closer to rebuilding than contending for a playoff spot. Buzelis’ defensive activity was also displayed on Saturday, as he tallied two steals and consistently challenged shots and passing lanes.