🚨 CHICAGO BULLS IN A TUMULTUOUS STRETCH: Matas Buzelis Rejects Tanking Narrative Amid Struggles 👇

The Chicago Bulls have been in a tailspin since the All-Star break, extending their losing streak to 10 games following a devastating 131-99 loss to the Charlotte Hornets. Despite the team’s struggles and a slide from playoff contention, Matas Buzelis, the team’s second-year forward, is firmly rejecting any talk of tanking. Instead, he insists that the Bulls’ focus remains on winning and that every player in the locker room is committed to the team’s success, regardless of the team’s current record or draft odds.

Buzelis Rejects Tanking Talk

When asked about the growing narrative that the Bulls might be angling for better draft positioning as they slide further down the standings, Buzelis fired back. He made it clear that he has no interest in contributing to a “tank,” and that his sole focus is on winning, night in and night out.

“I don’t really like that word,” Buzelis said when addressing the tanking talk surrounding the Bulls’ 10-game losing streak. “People might think that, but I’m going out and trying to win every night. All these guys are, too.”

Despite the Bulls’ extended losing streak, Buzelis remains adamant that the team is not intentionally losing to secure a better draft pick. The team’s record now stands at 24-35, marking the longest losing streak for the franchise in seven years. What began as a promising push for a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference quickly spiraled out of control as the team failed to win a game throughout February. Chicago’s last win came on January 31, when they were 24-25 and sat in ninth place in the East. Since then, their downward slide has been relentless.

The Trade Deadline and the Shift in the Bulls’ Direction

The tanking narrative did not appear out of thin air. Chicago’s actions at the trade deadline played a significant role in shaping the trajectory of the team. The Bulls made a series of trades that reshaped their roster, sending out veterans like Nikola Vucevic, Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, and Kevin Huerter in exchange for younger guards, draft picks, and developmental assets.

The most significant impact of these trades has been the reshuffling of the roster. Three of Chicago’s top seven players in minutes per game before the deadline were sent to other teams, signaling a shift in the front office’s approach. The team’s strategy seemed to acknowledge the need for a reset—a reset that had been long overdue. Since 2019, the Bulls have finished between sixth and 11th in the Eastern Conference each year, good enough to avoid high lottery odds but not competitive enough to contend for championships. As a result, the franchise hasn’t drafted higher than No. 11 since selecting Patrick Williams fourth overall in 2020.

With 23 games left in the season and Chicago outside serious playoff positioning, the Bulls are now trending toward lottery positioning for the 2026 NBA Draft. For the front office, this could be an opportunity to secure a higher draft pick in a deep class. However, from the players’ perspective, this type of focus on the draft is not part of their immediate goals. For Buzelis and his teammates, the mission is simple: continue to fight and win every game, no matter where they are in the standings.

Matas Buzelis: A Developing Star Amidst the Struggles

If there’s any silver lining to the Bulls’ recent struggles, it’s the development of Matas Buzelis. The No. 11 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Buzelis has taken a significant leap in his second season. He is averaging 15.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, shooting 47.4% from the field, 36.7% from three, and 77.8% from the free throw line. Since the All-Star break and the trade deadline, those numbers have climbed to 17.3 points and 6.1 rebounds with improved efficiency, including a 58.7% effective field goal percentage.

Buzelis’ expanded role has been a key factor in his growth. The increased responsibility on both ends of the floor has allowed him to showcase his skill set more frequently, but it has also tested his mental approach. Despite the Bulls’ tough season, Buzelis remains upbeat and focused on the task at hand.

“I’m always going to wake up with a smile on my face,” Buzelis said. “I try to build a short memory. As soon as I get out of the shower, it’s on to the next game.”

This mindset is indicative of a player who is driven to improve, rather than one who is focused on the draft or tanking. It speaks to a competitor’s spirit, one that will continue to give his best regardless of the team’s struggles.

Buzelis’ Role Moving Forward

For the Bulls, Buzelis is not only a key piece for the present but also for the future. His development over the course of this season is crucial for the franchise as it looks to build around young talent and develop a sustainable future. His mentality, focus on winning, and willingness to do whatever the team needs will be essential in helping the Bulls transition into the next phase of their rebuild.

“I’m going to be what the team needs me to be,” Buzelis said. “If that’s scoring, that’s what it’s going to be. We’ve got to come in every day ready to work.”

Buzelis’ commitment to his role, even as the team struggles, provides a much-needed sense of stability for the Bulls. He has made it clear that his growth is the priority, and that development is separate from the concept of tanking. As a young player, Buzelis understands the importance of development and is eager to continue his growth, regardless of the team’s immediate success.

Rebuilding the Bulls: A Long-Term Project

The Bulls are clearly in the midst of a rebuild, even if the team’s management hasn’t completely embraced the full-scale process. The trade deadline moves and the resulting changes to the roster suggest that the front office is acknowledging the need for a fresh start. While Chicago is not yet in a full rebuild mode, the team is retooling for the future, focusing on development and securing assets for the long term.

However, the Bulls have a long way to go. They are not currently positioned to contend for championships, and the focus on building through the draft and player development is essential for them to return to prominence. The team will need to continue making smart decisions with their roster, focusing on developing young players like Buzelis while maintaining a competitive environment.

Conclusion: A Steady Hand Amidst Uncertainty

As the Bulls move through a difficult season, Matas Buzelis has emerged as one of the bright spots in the midst of adversity. His commitment to improving and contributing to the team, regardless of the circumstances, is a testament to his character and potential. While the Bulls’ future may lie in the draft and player development, Buzelis’ mindset shows that the team’s focus on development and growth will remain their top priority. Tanking might be the narrative pushed by outsiders, but inside the Bulls’ locker room, it’s clear: they’re focused on getting better, one game at a time.