The Chicago Bulls closed out their preseason Friday night with a 133-116 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, finishing their exhibition schedule with a 3-2 record.

Minnesota rested its starters and several key reserves, but that doesn't make the game meaningless. For a young Bulls team learning Tiago Splitter's system, every opportunity to develop chemistry and build good habits matters. Friday offered plenty of encouraging signs, along with a few concerns worth watching.

The Good

Tiago Splitter showed an interesting approach to coaching Caleb Wilson. After the rookie got beat off the dribble twice early in the first quarter, Splitter pulled him from the game. Wilson returned midway through the quarter and responded with his best performance of the preseason, finishing with 16 points, seven rebounds and four assists while shooting 40% from three.

It was a good example of how accountability can help young players develop. Splitter made his expectations clear without leaving Wilson on the bench for long. Finding that balance between teaching and trusting his players could be important for this young roster.

Jalen Smith has earned his spot in Chicago's starting five. His defense has improved, his ability to space the floor is essential to Splitter's offense and his effort has been consistent. Smith has looked like the Bulls' best big man throughout the preseason, and his versatility fits what this team wants to do.

Dailyn Swain has also impressed, particularly with his cutting. He recognizes when defenders start watching the ball and has a natural feel for filling open space. Chicago should experiment with lineups featuring Swain and Josh Giddey, who is the team's best passer when it comes to finding cutters. Their strengths could complement each other nicely.

Speaking of Giddey, Chicago's starting point guard finally looked comfortable running the offense Friday night. Earlier in the preseason, much of his passing had been connective rather than the result of creating advantages himself. Against Minnesota, he was more aggressive getting downhill and forcing the defense to react.

That's the version of Giddey the Bulls need. When he's attacking the paint, opportunities open up for shooters and cutters, and Chicago's offense becomes much harder to defend. His ability to operate as a true floor general will be central to the team's development.

Jordan Hawkins made a positive impression in his minutes, too. He was disruptive defensively in the second half and shot confidently from three. Bryson Graham may have found a worthwhile addition for one of Chicago's final two-way spots. Hawkins still has plenty to prove, but the defensive activity and shooting are encouraging.

Patrick Williams deserves some recognition as well. The former fourth overall pick has quietly put together a solid preseason, looking comfortable and productive when given opportunities. Chicago's crowded forward rotation could make regular minutes difficult to find, but Williams appears ready to contribute when his number gets called.

The Bad

Chicago still looks vulnerable against especially athletic perimeter players. Terrence Shannon Jr. and Jaylin Clark both had moments where they turned the corner on Bulls defenders and created opportunities off the dribble. That's a concern for a team hoping to force turnovers and turn defense into transition offense. While the help defense will certainly be effective all season with Buzelis, Wilson and the big-man rotation all looking to block shots, the perimeter contain needs to be better from Chicago.

The Ugly

There wasn't much ugly about Friday's performance, but Matas Buzelis' pull-up jumper remains a concern. Buzelis spent the summer discussing how the previous system limited his midrange opportunities. Splitter has given him more freedom, but the results haven't been particularly convincing so far.

Buzelis has looked uncomfortable shooting off the dribble throughout the preseason, which stands out because he's been so effective attacking the basket. His added strength has helped him absorb contact and finish through defenders, and those downhill drives have been among the most promising parts of his game.

Developing a midrange jumper could eventually make Buzelis a more complete scorer. For now, though, he shouldn't let those attempts replace what already works. Chicago benefits most when he's putting pressure on the rim rather than settling for difficult pull-ups.

What's Next?

The Bulls finish the preseason 4-2 with some genuine progress to build on. Splitter is establishing expectations, several young players have shown growth and the offense is beginning to take shape. The defensive issues are real, but there's reason to be encouraged by what Chicago has shown.

The regular season opens Wednesday, October 21, on the road against the Toronto Raptors. The competition will be tougher, and the games will finally count. The Raptors are one of the most well-rounded and physical teams in the league and should be an eye opener for this young Bulls squad.