Key Highlights
- Buzelis aims for the Most Improved Player award in his second NBA season.
- Giddey’s basketball IQ is compared to Magic Johnson by Buzelis.
- The Bulls are targeting a playoff spot with their young core, including Giddey and Coby White.
- Noa Essengue’s defensive potential is highlighted as key for the team’s future.
Matas Buzelis Aims High for Second NBA Season
Entering his second season with the Chicago Bulls, forward Matas Buzelis has set ambitious goals for himself and his team. The 6-foot-10 forward is eager to be recognized as the Most Improved Player (MIP) this year while helping the Bulls secure a playoff berth.
Buzelis’ Individual Ambitions
In an interview with RG, Buzelis expressed his aspirations for individual success. “Individually, I want to win Most Improved Player,” he stated emphatically. “As a team, I want to win a championship — plain and simple. You should be going for that every year.” His determination is rooted in the belief that players of all levels can achieve significant improvements.
Comparing Giddey to Magic Johnson
Buzelis praised his teammate Josh Giddey, comparing him to legendary point guard Earvin “Magic” Johnson. “Josh’s IQ is off the charts,” Buzelis said. “He’s amazingly skillful at his height. I can’t compare him to any player.” The 23-year-old Giddey has already established himself as one of the top guards in the NBA with a career-high 7.2 assists and 8.1 rebounds per game, showing improved efficiency from beyond the arc.
Not only does Buzelis admire Giddey’s on-court abilities but also his work ethic: “He works extremely hard, he finds everyone,” Buzelis continued. “He includes everyone into the game.” By comparing him to Magic Johnson, Buzelis underscores Giddey’s unique skill set and potential impact on the team.
Young Core and Defensive Potential
The Bulls’ young core, led by Buzelis, Giddey, and Coby White, is expected to play a crucial role in the team’s success. The team ranked sixth in points per game and second in pace during the 2025-26 season opener against the Detroit Pistons, where Buzelis contributed significantly with 21 points and six rebounds.
Noa Essengue, the No. 12 overall pick, is seen as a valuable asset due to his defensive potential. “He has everything,” Buzelis noted. “It’s going to be an adjustment period for him at first, but he’ll be fine.” Essengue’s work ethic and early contributions in training camp are promising signs for the team’s future.
Chicago Bulls’ Aspirations
Buzelis is optimistic about the Bulls’ chances of exceeding expectations and clinching a playoff berth. “We can win the championship with that type of frenetic offensive pace,” he stated confidently, referencing the successful style employed by teams like the Indiana Pacers.
The Chicago native is deeply connected to his hometown team: “This means everything to me being here and representing the Bulls.” His journey from a promising rookie to an established starter reflects the potential for growth within the team’s young roster.
