Matas Buzelis is not having the ideal start to the 2026-27 season.
The third-year forward is averaging 14.6 points, 4.4 rebounds and two assists per game. He is shooting 38.8% from the field and 28% from beyond the arc. He is also averaging 2.8 turnovers per contest.
The Chicago Bulls are currently 1-4 and on a three-game losing streak.
For Chicago to start winning games, they will need more from Buzelis.
Buzelis needs to get his offense going
Right now, Buzelis has only scored over 20 points in a game once this season. He did so against the Washington Wizards, putting up 21 points.
The Bulls are struggling early on, and they need more. Buzelis is a player who should be able to step up and be more dominant on the offensive end.
Buzelis had some great drives to the rim in preseason, and it looked like this would be a strong look for him this season. However, this has not been a strong enough shot for him yet. Buzelis and the Bulls have to prioritize getting him more opportunities downhill.
His 3-point shooting and turnovers are two specific areas to focus on as well.
The Bulls have to be a better 3-point shooting team. Hopefully, this is something that can be done with the roster they have. Buzelis can play a big role in how this plays out.
If he gets his 3-point shot going, it will help this Bulls offense improve and open up opportunities for him to attack the rim.
The Bulls need to limit their turnovers as well. Buzelis limiting his turnovers will help the Bulls have better control on the offensive end and give him further chances to score.
Why Buzelis' success is so important for a turnaround
Buzelis and rookie Caleb Wilson have the chance to be a strong 1-2 punch. However, the Bulls will need more from Buzelis early on to show this capability.
Wilson is playing very well so far. He is averaging 20.8 points, seven rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.4 blocks per game. He is shooting 41.3% from the field and 22.2% from 3-point range.
Expect even more production from the rookie as the season progresses.
If Buzelis really gets his offense going in these ways, with Wilson putting up these numbers or higher, the Bulls will have a strong offensive duo.
This will be key to determining the Bulls' early success. With Wilson and Buzelis putting up great numbers, defenses should have a tougher approach. Easier looks will open up for other key players on the roster as well.
Looking at the Bulls' upcoming slate, they play teams with talented offenses. If the Bulls want to compete with these teams, they will need more from Buzelis.
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