Chicago fans, it's time to take a closer look at what's brewing with the Bulls. Since the calendar flipped to March, they've managed a 4-4 record, and a big part of that resurgence is thanks to the emerging star, Matas Buzelis. At just 21, Buzelis is proving why he's seen as the cornerstone of this franchise's future.
Sure, it's been a rough stretch for the Bulls, losing over 76% of their games since the trade deadline shake-up. But amidst the rebuilding, there's a silver lining-Buzelis is showing flashes of brilliance that offer hope for the days ahead.
On Monday night, Buzelis led the charge as the Bulls took down the Grizzlies 132-107 at home. After a winless February, Billy Donovan's squad is finding its footing, winning half of their March matchups so far.
Buzelis was electric, dropping 29 points, marking the seventh time in nine games he's hit the 20-point mark. He was efficient, hitting 12 of his 22 shots, and added seven rebounds and three blocks to his stat line.
Meanwhile, Josh Giddey was making history of his own, notching his 30th career triple-double. The Aussie guard was everywhere on the court, tallying 16 points, 15 rebounds, 13 assists, and three steals. It's his fifth triple-double in seven games, pushing him up the NBA's all-time leaderboard.
Despite six Grizzlies players scoring in double figures, Memphis couldn't shake their losing streak, now at eight games. Even with nine players sidelined due to injury, they managed to keep it close in the first half. A highlight-reel dunk from Buzelis over Rayan Rupert lit up the United Center, but Memphis hung in there, trailing by just four at halftime.
Giddey was nearly at a triple-double by the break and continued to orchestrate the offense with precision. His playmaking opened up opportunities for Buzelis, who capitalized with a flurry of three-pointers.
Buzelis was on fire in the third quarter, sinking three shots from beyond the arc as part of a 23-7 run that gave the Bulls a commanding lead. Though Memphis clawed back to within six, Buzelis answered with a step-back three, keeping the Grizzlies at bay. His 18-point explosion in the third was a personal best for a single quarter in his young NBA career.
Chicago fans, keep an eye on Buzelis. If this is a glimpse of what's to come, the Bulls' future is looking brighter by the game.