The Chicago Bulls tipped off their 2025–26 season with a Central Division matchup against the Detroit Pistons, surviving a late scare to earn a 115–111 victory. And while a team win is always the main goal, Matas Buzelis’ individual performance stole the spotlight and brought a much-needed breath of fresh air to the United Center.
The Bulls came out on fire, building a 23-point lead early in the game, an unusual feat for a team that gave up double-digit leads in all five preseason contests. But old habits returned in the fourth quarter, as Chicago’s advantage quickly disappeared and Detroit tied the game with just under two minutes to play.
Despite the collapse, the Bulls regrouped and closed out a hard-fought win that gave fans a rare sense of optimism about the franchise’s future. That future, it seems, is second-year forward Matas Buzelis.
Matas Buzelis' strong start
During Chicago’s media day in late September, Buzelis made his goals clear: “I want to win Most Improved Player this year. That’s what I’m striving for,” he said. “This is a team sport. Individual stuff comes once you win. I’m focused on one goal, to be the best player I can be.” And if his opening-night performance was any indication, he’s already well on track.
In 34 strong minutes on the court, Buzelis finished with 21 points, six rebounds, and three blocks while shooting 7-for-12 from the field. He played with newfound confidence and aggression, attacking the rim with purpose and showing growth on both ends of the floor.
Beyond the numbers, it was his energy and poise that stood out most. His highlight-reel dunk over Pistons center Isaiah Stewart quickly went viral, serving as an early statement that his breakout year may already be underway.
MATAS BUZELIS POSTER ON ISAIAH STEWART😱🚀 pic.twitter.com/IsiZO59D0i
— Bulls on CHSN (@CHSN_Bulls) October 23, 2025
Major step up from rookie year
Through five preseason and one regular-season games, Buzelis looks like a completely different player from the one Bulls fans saw last year. As a rookie, he averaged 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks in 18.9 minutes per game. He showed flashes of potential but often played passively and lacked confidence.
Now, all that hesitation appears to be gone. One of the clearest signs of growth came from his willingness to attack the basket and draw contact. Buzelis attempted seven free throws against Detroit after averaging just 1.4 attempts per game last season. It was a simple, but powerful reminder of how much more physical and assertive he has become.
A positive future
Buzelis clearly spent the offseason improving his strength, mentality, and overall approach to the game. His combination of offensive efficiency, defensive presence, and willingness to take contact shows that the Bulls may finally have a homegrown talent ready to take the next step towards stardom.
If he can continue this level of production throughout the 2025–26 season, Buzelis will not only put himself in position to win Most Improved Player but also raise the ceiling for the 2025-26 Bulls as a whole.
However, one thing is for certain: the Matas Buzelis era in Chicago has officially begun.