The Chicago Bulls project to be led by their two young forwards this upcoming season.
Matas Buzelis is entering his third season in the league, but he's already one of the longest-tenured players on the Chicago Bulls' roster.
The 21-year-old forward was drafted with the No. 11 overall pick in 2024, and the teammates he entered the league with are almost completely different than the ones he has now. Only Patrick Williams — the No. 4 overall pick in 2020 — and Josh Giddey — who was traded five days before Buzelis was drafted — have been with the Bulls longer than Buzelis.
Although he is still young, Buzelis is already looking to improve as a vocal leader. A big part of that has been taking No. 4 pick Caleb Wilson under his wing as the two aim to turn Chicago's franchise around. Buzelis and Wilson have attended Cubs games and concerts together, as well as teamed up in various pro runs and workouts throughout the summer.
At the Bulls' Media Day on Monday, Buzelis said that Wilson was going to be "a problem" on the court, largely due to his eagerness to learn and grow. But there are still some areas where Buzelis — who went through ups and downs over his first two years in the NBA — can help ease Wilson's transition to the next level.
Mar 1, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis (14) makes a three point basket over Milwaukee Bucks guard/forward Kevin Porter Jr. (7) during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images "He's obviously a great talent," Buzelis said. "I can lead him through small stuff like recovery, what he needs to do when he gets off the plane, what he needs to eat. He's got all the skills. On the court, he might make some mistakes. I don't really want to get into anyone's head. I want everyone to play free, but controlled, and that's something that I feel every vet kind of speaks on is not overcoaching."
Playing "free" isn't something that Buzelis has had much of an opportunity to do so far in the NBA. The 6-foot-8, 210-pound wing is a mismatch on the perimeter and has shown talent in the mid-range, but has largely been forced into taking three-pointers and layups by coaching and offensive structure limitations. Buzelis added that he has spoken frequently to executive vice president Bryson Graham and head coach Tiago Splitter about taking more mid-range attempts this year and playing more of his natural game.
Wilson and Buzelis are projected to start for Chicago at the power forward and small forward positions, respectively. The pair of lengthy, versatile teammates is set to punish defenses with their athleticism while making highlight-reel plays on both ends of the floor.
Chicago's talented young duo will debut together when the Bulls open their preseason slate on Wednesday, Oct. 7, against the Phoenix Suns.
