LAS VEGAS — Matas Buzelis looked rough in his first Summer League game (at least from an efficiency standpoint), giving Chicago Bulls fans some general anxiety, but just five minutes into his second contest on Monday night, his comfort level was enough to erase said fear. Within the first five minutes of the game, though he did have a couple of shaky moments, he threw down a huge dunk off a cut and nailed a three-pointer in rhythm.
Though he didn’t shoot the ball very well in his first showing, Buzelis looked as confident as ever in his second time out, and it showed in the way he played. Any fears of him regressing from the solid finish he enjoyed to wrap up his rookie season should have been quelled for the time being.
Sometimes, the shots just don’t fall.
How did Matas Buzelis do in first quarter vs. Pacers?
Within the first five minutes of action, Buzelis already had a monster dunk and a three. And by the time he checked out, having played 6:34, he tallied seven points, two rebounds, and an assist, shooting a perfect 2-of-2 from the floor.
Buzelis also turned the ball over twice, displaying some shakiness running the floor, but his confidence never wavered. Even after one of his turnovers, he still took the ball up the floor shortly after, showing no signs of slowing down.
He was moving very well on both ends of the court, and it should have dulled the worries that may have ensued after his first Summer League performance (which was certainly less than ideal).
In Buzelis’ first game of Summer League, he put up 17 points, five rebounds, and four assists. However, he shot just 4-of-14 from the field and 2-of-8 from deep.
What could Matas Buzelis look lik next year for Bulls?
Based on the way the Bulls’ roster is shaping out heading into next season, Buzelis could have an opportunity to make a massive leap in his second NBA season.
Chicago has a ton of guards on the roster, leaving Buzelis and rookie Noa Essengue a clear path to take over the frontcourt (barring an unforeseen leap from Patrick Williams).
His shot creation and freak athleticism should fit in beautifully next to Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, and whoever else Chicago tabs as their young core moving forward.
And based on how well he responded after a rough shooting performance in his first Summer League game, confidence doesn’t seem like it will be an issue.
