The Chicago Bulls are in a back-and-forth battle with the Orlando Magic on their home court. The two teams have split 1-1 in their season matchups so far, and were tied at halftime. The Bulls have recently reverted to a similar product they began the year with, featuring a new array of top scorers each night, multiple players in double figures, and the bench carrying the load. They've got one of the highest scoring second units leaguewide, and are on pace to be the highest scoring bench in franchise history. Midway through the second quarter of tonight's outing, second-year breakout star Matas Buzelis reminded everyone why the Chicago Bulls selected him 11th overall two years ago, and why they're rebuilding the entire roster around his skillset.
Poster Of The Year
A few weeks back, Jalen Smith took the top spot for Chicago's best dunk of the season by posterizing Joel Embiid. Tonight, there's a new highlight claiming the throne for best dunk, poster, and highlight of not only the Bulls' year, but possibly the entire league. In a lopsided transition attack, Buzelis opted to keep the rock, attack the rim, and ignite the United Center crowd with this explosive slam.
MATAS BUZELIS PUT JALEN SUGGS ON A POSTER 😱
— Bulls on CHSN (@CHSN_Bulls) January 3, 2026
OH MY 🤯 pic.twitter.com/6flJzLlldI
Buzelis has led Chicago in dunks and blocks since his arrival last season, and he's often referred to as the most athletic and explosive talent on the roster. His bouncy nature and high motor make for a highlight reel waiting to happen. Tonight was potentially the most impressive one in his young career.
Playing Lights Out Lately
The youngster has shown clear improvements across each stage of his career. After a slow first four months to his rookie campaign, he ended the year on a tear that would've landed him in the Rookie Of The Year race if he sustained it for the first half of the season. In his second year, he has only improved with time. Over the last two weeks, with some injuries to his fellow running mates Josh Giddey and Coby White, he's stepped up when the team has needed it most.
Matas is leveling up in year two 📈 pic.twitter.com/E9ljYJbBXP
— Bulls on CHSN (@CHSN_Bulls) January 2, 2026
While his preseason goal of being the league's Most Improved Player is likely out of reach, and being nominated to his first All-Star game is improbable, the improvement is clear; the signs are there - this kid is going to be a star. In a decade where Arturas Karnisovas has made many mistakes with the roster and organization, drafting Buzelis was one of his rare bright spots.
