Bulls forward Matas Buzelis seeks rhythm in slow start

Matas Buzelis scored four points and committed five turnovers in the Chicago Bulls' six-point loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night. The 6-foot-8 forward is currently averaging 13 points per game over seven contests, a period in which the Bulls hold a 1-6 record. Buzelis stated that he is focusing on the factors he can control while the team adjusts to its new roster composition.

The forward entered the 2026-27 season with high expectations after establishing himself as a primary scorer and defender in his second year. However, his early 2026-27 numbers reflect a transition to a new offensive system featuring standout rookie Caleb Wilson. Buzelis noted that finding his role alongside Wilson and other new teammates has required a period of adjustment.

Buzelis attributed his early struggles to the natural difficulty of integrating new players into a roster. He said, "It was difficult. You know, new guys coming in .. it makes it harder." He described the process as a challenge he views through a personal lens, stating that he believes he is being placed in positions that allow him to grow. "I worked extremely hard this summer. Sometimes you work hard and you think you'll get the results," Buzelis added.

Point guard Josh Giddey emphasized that the entire team is still learning how to function as a unit. Giddey pointed out that the Bulls have multiple offensive threats, including Norm Powell and Wilson, which complicates the spacing in half-court sets. "We're all learning how to play with each other," Giddey said. He affirmed that Buzelis remains a highly talented player and that it is his responsibility to help Buzelis regain his previous form.

Head coach Tiago Splitter is tasked with balancing the spotlight between the rookie star and the veteran core. The coaching staff must ensure that supporting players receive adequate offensive opportunities without stifling the primary playmaker. This balance is critical during the early part of the season, when the team is still establishing its identity and defensive structure.

Buzelis has historically shown improvement over the course of a season. In his rookie year, he averaged 13 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game over the final 27 games. Last season, his scoring increased by nearly four points per game from the first half to the second, accompanied by improvements in rebounding and shot-blocking efficiency. These patterns suggest that his current struggles may be temporary as he settles into the new system.

The forward expressed a desire to find a consistent rhythm rather than forcing plays. "I just got to get into a flow, man," Buzelis said. "That's all I need to get it going." He acknowledged that the team is not alone in its adjustment phase, noting that several players are working to find their offensive roles within the new framework.

The Bulls will continue to evaluate their offensive sets in upcoming games. Buzelis remains a key defensive asset, particularly for his ability to block shots from the rim area. His offensive production will be a primary metric for the coaching staff as they look to stabilize the team's performance in the coming weeks.