The Chicago Bulls are off to an incredible and improbable start to the 2025-26 season. Despite being the underdogs in three of their four games, they've somehow managed to begin the year 4-0. They're one of only four teams leaguewide without a loss on their record. Without any major player transactions or management changes, what has been different for the Bulls this season? The most significant difference is that this is the first time in nine years the team has started the year without Zach LaVine on the roster. As the face of the franchise, one of only two All-Star selections and top scorer during that time, and all-time three-point field goals leader, there was a massive void left in terms of production and presence. Who has the baton been passed to, and how's he handling the enormous pressure of an entire organization?
Matas Is The Guy
Let's not get confused, Josh Giddey is the best player on the Chicago Bulls. He nearly posts a triple-double nightly, is the most consistent offensive weapon, and is the most crucial driving force in the entirety of the offense. Matas Buzelis is the most exciting prospect, the most exhilarating performer, and the most charismatic personality to support. As a sophomore whom the Bulls drafted, he's also naturally the easiest option to pull for. Through four games of a self-proclaimed NBA's Most Improved Player award chase this season, he's been significantly hit or miss.
Matas Buzelis in tonight's win:
— BullsMuse (@BullsMuse_) October 30, 2025
27 PTS (3rd career-high)
5 REB
2 STL
11/18 FG
4/6 3FG
+/- +18
Led the Chicago Bulls to their first 4-0 start since 2021 🔥😤 pic.twitter.com/kFXuKkQGCv
In three of the four, he's attempted at least a dozen shots, played 32 minutes, scored 16 or more points, and grabbed at least five rebounds. Game two was an outlier; he was in foul trouble early and only ended up playing 12 minutes before fouling out with 1-for-5 shooting and three points. In the early going, it seems as though his success will heavily rely on his ability to knock down three-point shots and get to the free-throw line. Last night's season-high 27 points featured four three-point baskets, and game one's 21 points included seven free-throw makes.
A Confident Kid With High Hopes
One thing that the 21-year-old Buzelis does not lack is confidence. Last season, after the trade deadline, he said his goal was to make the NBA's All-Rookie First Team, despite only a few dozen games remaining and the task seeming impossible. He found his way onto the All-Rookie Second Team, which was still impressive with his limited exposure during the first portion of his first campaign. This year, the league's M.I.P. award is in his sights, and since he'll seemingly be a starter the entire time barring injury, it might be possible. Although it's only been four games, he's already doubled his points per game, increased his field goal percentage and free throw efficiency, and added more rebounds, assists, blocks, and steals per night.
Zach LaVine on Matas Buzelis: “Every time I came back and worked at the (Advocate Center) at night time, he was asking me, ‘Can I come in with you? Can I come in and work with you?’ You’re just going to see his development get better and better. He can do it all."
— Cody Westerlund (@CodyWesterlund) October 30, 2025
Head coach Billy Donovan and front office leader Arturas Karnisovas both echoed the same sentiment regarding their blossoming star: he's hungry, talented, confident, and wants to be the best. That is a recipe for a star in the NBA, and hopefully one that Chicago can build around for years. Is he ready for the burden of an entire city on his shoulders? We will quickly find out as the season unfolds.
