Matas Buzelis is a young player with a fiery passion for winning, but right now, he's navigating some choppy waters with the Chicago Bulls. After their latest loss, Buzelis found himself at a loss for words, his frustration evident as he ran his fingers through his hair. The Bulls, sitting at 24-35, are in a rough patch, dropping 10 straight games and inching closer to an unfortunate franchise record.
Since the trade deadline, the Bulls have been in a state of flux. Key players were traded away, leaving Buzelis, at just 21, as one of the more seasoned players on the roster. Despite the upheaval, Buzelis remains optimistic, driven by a belief that this team can still find its footing.
“When you trade half the team, and you bring in new guys, it’s tough,” Buzelis admitted. “It’s no excuse, though. We gotta come in and figure it out.”
The Bulls have struggled to find cohesion, often falling back on isolation plays that haven't panned out. But in their recent game against the Hornets, Buzelis showed a glimpse of his potential, scoring a career-high 32 points. His shot selection was bold and varied, showcasing moves that hint at his star potential.
This performance wasn't just a fluke. It was the result of a deep dive with coach Billy Donovan into what shots Buzelis should be taking. Donovan is pushing him to be more dynamic with the ball, and Buzelis is eager to fill whatever role the team needs.
“I’m gonna be what the team needs me to be,” he said, reflecting on his versatile performance.
Despite his standout game, the Bulls still suffered a hefty loss to Charlotte. The reality of the season is harsh, with many teams already eyeing the next draft class. Buzelis, however, refuses to entertain the idea of tanking.
“I don’t really believe in stuff like that,” Buzelis stated firmly. “Every time I step out to do something competitive, I’m trying to win.”
Even as the Bulls struggle, Buzelis is working with a mental health coach to maintain a positive mindset, focusing on being the best player he can be every time he hits the court.
With the NBA considering changes to the draft system, the Bulls might soon face a new landscape. But for now, Buzelis is determined to help turn things around, holding onto hope that they can shape a future that aligns with his winning aspirations.