Bulls' Buzelis Stuns In Chicago, Reminds Donovan of Potential, But Also Highlights Need for Growth.
In a much-needed win over Miami, the Bulls relied on underdog Matas Buzelis to outlast the Heat 125-118. The Lithuanian forward got off to a shaky start, struggling with his shot and decision-making in the first half. However, as the game wore on, he regained his composure, finishing with 21 points, eight rebounds, and eight turnovers.
Bulls head coach Billy Donovan remains steadfast in his assessment of Buzelis, saying that while the young player shows flashes of brilliance, it's clear that he still needs time to develop. "There are really a lot of talented guys in this league," Donovan said, "but what separates certain guys is how they perform from the shoulders up."
Despite some promising signs – including his ability to step up in crucial moments and his strong work ethic – Buzelis also showed himself to be prone to mistakes. He had eight turnovers on Saturday, and at times looked uncertain in his decision-making.
In contrast, teammate Ayo Dosunmu was a one-man show down the stretch, scoring 10 of his 29 points in the final three minutes. His clutch performances have become a staple of Bulls basketball this season, but it's clear that the team can't rely solely on him to bail them out every time.
Buzelis' growth is a key factor in determining the Bulls' long-term success. While he has shown signs of maturity and competitive drive, there are still areas where he needs to improve – particularly in terms of his physicality and ability to defend multiple positions.
The team's recent moves may be an attempt to shore up these weaknesses. In addition to acquiring Dario Saric and two second-round picks from the Cavaliers and Kings, the Bulls have traded Emanuel Miller and waived Jevon Carter. While it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the team's overall outlook, they do suggest that Donovan is willing to take bold steps to try and accelerate Buzelis' development.
As the Bulls prepare for their next matchup against Miami, eyes will be firmly fixed on Buzelis. Can he build on Saturday's performance and take his game to the next level? Or will the same old doubts and uncertainties follow him down the road? Only time will tell.
In a much-needed win over Miami, the Bulls relied on underdog Matas Buzelis to outlast the Heat 125-118. The Lithuanian forward got off to a shaky start, struggling with his shot and decision-making in the first half. However, as the game wore on, he regained his composure, finishing with 21 points, eight rebounds, and eight turnovers.
Bulls head coach Billy Donovan remains steadfast in his assessment of Buzelis, saying that while the young player shows flashes of brilliance, it's clear that he still needs time to develop. "There are really a lot of talented guys in this league," Donovan said, "but what separates certain guys is how they perform from the shoulders up."
Despite some promising signs – including his ability to step up in crucial moments and his strong work ethic – Buzelis also showed himself to be prone to mistakes. He had eight turnovers on Saturday, and at times looked uncertain in his decision-making.
In contrast, teammate Ayo Dosunmu was a one-man show down the stretch, scoring 10 of his 29 points in the final three minutes. His clutch performances have become a staple of Bulls basketball this season, but it's clear that the team can't rely solely on him to bail them out every time.
Buzelis' growth is a key factor in determining the Bulls' long-term success. While he has shown signs of maturity and competitive drive, there are still areas where he needs to improve – particularly in terms of his physicality and ability to defend multiple positions.
The team's recent moves may be an attempt to shore up these weaknesses. In addition to acquiring Dario Saric and two second-round picks from the Cavaliers and Kings, the Bulls have traded Emanuel Miller and waived Jevon Carter. While it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the team's overall outlook, they do suggest that Donovan is willing to take bold steps to try and accelerate Buzelis' development.
As the Bulls prepare for their next matchup against Miami, eyes will be firmly fixed on Buzelis. Can he build on Saturday's performance and take his game to the next level? Or will the same old doubts and uncertainties follow him down the road? Only time will tell.
. it's like trying to build a foundation with blocks, you gotta lay the right base first 
. and yeah, ayo dosunmu is clutch, but overreliance on one player is never good 
. they need to develop buzelis' defensive game too, can't just leave him out there to be gashed 
, but at the same time I feel like there's still work to be done 
. He showed flashes of brilliance on the court 
, but also made some rookie mistakes 
. I mean, 8 turnovers? 
That's a lot! But what really got me is how Ayo Dosunmu stepped up and saved the game 
.
. They need to work on his physicality and defense skills 
. I'm rooting for this kid! 
. I'm not saying he can't improve, but it feels like a bunch of PR spin to me. What about actual change? Have they even looked at the system or coaching style? That's where all the real growth happens 
.
. the bulls need him to step up their physical game tho, can't just rely on dosunmu to carry them every time. and what's with all these moves by dontovan? trying to accelerate buzelis' growth or just trying to make a statement 
! He's got this crazy potential and it's amazing to see him step up in crucial moments like that 
. But at the same time, i'm also low-key worried about his game 
? that guy's a clutch machine 
?
and i'm all about seeing how Buzelis develops 
️
. the bulls need to build on this performance or else it's gonna be a long season. can't rely on just one guy no matter how clutch they are 
. and bruh, 8 turnovers is crazy 
. We need someone who can guard multiple positions and not turn the ball over every other minute. I like that Donovan is trying to push Buzelis harder, but at the same time, give him space to grow. The team's moves to acquire new players could be a good move, but we'll have to see how it all plays out. One game doesn't define a season, right? 
. The Bulls need someone who can consistently deliver under pressure, and right now, I think Ayo Dosunmu is carrying the team on his back 
. What's the plan to address those weaknesses in his game? It can't just be a case of throwing more talent at him 
or else he'll be stuck in neutral gear 
[gif of a stop sign, but it's upside down]
. He showed some serious sauce on Saturday, but at the same time, it's clear he's still a work in progress. I mean, eight turnovers? That's not gonna cut it, not even in a win like this. But what really gets me is how he can't seem to find his footing when things get tough. Ayo Dosunmu's clutch gene is cool and all, but if Buzelis can't hold his own alongside him, the Bulls are stuck. I'm hoping those new moves from Billy Donovan will help shore up Buzelis' weaknesses, 'cause right now, it's like he's got two speeds: hot