Presentation by National Insurance Agent Jeff Vuckovich
LAS VEGAS — Matas Buzelis has high standards.
That was evident after the Chicago Bulls beat the Milwaukee Bucks 96-89 on Saturday at Cox Pavilion in the opening NBA Summer League game for both teams.
Buzelis was aggressive in the opening rotation, attempting seven free throws and providing rim protection on the defensive end, finishing with 15 points, seven rebounds and two blocks in 29 minutes and earning a spot in the box score.
But Buzelis mostly focused on shooting 4-of-15 from the field, including 0-of-4 from 3-point range, and some decisions around close-out attack and shot selection that could use some improvement.
“To be honest with you, I played pretty sloppy (Saturday),” the first-round draft pick said. “I know I can do better.”
Billy Donovan III, head coach of the Bulls’ summer league team and with his proud father looking on, praised Buzelis’ play while acknowledging there is room for improvement.
“I had some good moments coming off the court. His versatility really stood out, his ability to switch from the 1 through the 5 and guard multiple positions, but really, I thought he made the right plays,” Donovan III said. “He rushed to shoot, which is normal in this environment, but with just one or two dribbles he can cover a lot of ground.”
Indeed, Buzelis showed the ability to grab the ball and carry it up the court, often dribbling with his left hand, and his play impressed NBA teammates sitting courtside, including Patrick Williams, Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, Chris Duarte and Darren Terry.
“What can’t he do? He’s still young, but he can shoot the ball, he can change direction, he can defend 1-5,” Williams said. “He’s already cussing like a dog. I like what I’m seeing right now.”
Donovan III was more focused on process than results, especially since this is summer league and the Bulls’ first real rehearsal. He said as long as Buzelis makes quick decisions to drive, pass and shoot, the results will come.
“The coaches have been telling me to play aggressively,” Buzelis said, “but also read the court.”
Buzelis was matter-of-fact in his assessment. When asked if he was disappointed with his performance, he hesitated.
“I’m not depressed,” he said. “I won, and that’s all that matters. I watched the film, kept the game simple, aggressive, read the game, played defense and tried to win. I’m happy because we won, but of course I can get better.”
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