From Chicago Sun-Times · · 1m 20s
Bulls' New Forward Thinkers
Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis lead Chicago Bulls' rebuild with elite defense and chemistry.
In brief
Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis lead Chicago Bulls' rebuild with elite defense and chemistry. Bulls' rookie Caleb Wilson and 21-year Matas Buzelis form a defensive powerhouse with 27-year Nic Claxton, aiming to dominate the NBA's frontcourt. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Bulls' New Forward Thinkers
Chicago Bulls rookie Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis aim to lead the team's rebuild.
“The duo have become friends off the court since Wilson was drafted last June”
Summer Connections
Wilson trained with LeBron James and teammates at Cubs games and South Side Pro Run.
“he’s been spotted at Cubs games cheering on Pete Crow-Armstrong with teammate Matas Buzelis”
Elite Defense
Buzelis blocked 116 shots and Claxton recorded 189 blocks in 2022-23.
“Buzelis is 21 and coming off a season in which he hit 173 three-pointers and blocked 116 shots”
Back Health
Claxton's back issues resolved, enabling him to play with elite defensive presence.
“the back is no longer an issue”
Defensive Power
Wilson, Buzelis and Claxton create a no-fly zone for opponents on defense.
“the skies above the United Center are basically a no-fly zone for the opposition”
Coaching Shift
New coach Tiago Splitter focuses on versatile frontcourt defense.
“Even better news for new coach Tiago Splitter? His starting frontcourt doesn’t just rim protect on the defensive end of the floor”
Rookie Focus
Wilson targets Rookie of the Year and league greatness.
“Wilson will be must-see TV this season”
Buzelis' Growth
Buzelis enters year three with potential for stardom.
“Buzelis: Year 3 is always huge for a young player and Buzelis is no different”
Claxton's Role
Claxton provides physical presence in the paint with healthy back.
“Claxton: If the back is truly healthy then the Bulls will have an athletic big patrolling the paint”
Reserve Depth
Bulls have versatile reserves to support frontcourt defense.
“Splitter is being handed a versatile group that can gives the opposition different looks”
Key Reserves
Isaac Okoro, Jalen Smith and Zach Collins form strong reserve options.
“Zach Collins: The center was re-signed for a reason as the Bulls love his physicality and presence in the paint”
Future Outlook
Bulls aim to dominate with Wilson, Buzelis and Claxton as the core.
“This could be the most exciting frontcourt the Bulls have had since the Joakim Noah, Luol Deng days”
The key point
Bulls' rookie Caleb Wilson and 21-year Matas Buzelis form a defensive powerhouse with 27-year Nic Claxton, aiming to dominate the NBA's frontcourt.
