1 Crucial Lineup Change Following LaVine’s Departure: Matas Buzelis Must Start

1 Crucial Lineup Change Following LaVine’s Departure: Matas Buzelis Must Start

A New Era Begins – Luka Doncic at the Lakers

10-of-10 from the field. 4-of-4 from beyond the arc. 24 points. Zach LaVine… Wait, he's no longer with the Chicago Bulls. Nikola Vucevic… well, he only made 5-of-13 attempts from the field. So, who could have put up a stat line like that? Look no further than 20-year-old rookie Matas Buzelis.

The 11th-overall pick in last June's draft had a night for the history books. Buzelis became the first rookie in Bulls history to shoot 100 percent on at least 10 field goal attempts. He’s only the sixth rookie in NBA history to achieve that feat. Even more impressive, he’s the first to hit 10 field goals, including a three-pointer, with perfect efficiency.

The rookie’s performance was jaw-dropping. On a smaller scale, Buzelis’ 24 points set a career-high. The 6-foot-10 forward had never made more than three three-pointers in a game before Chicago’s matchup with the Miami Heat.

Why Buzelis Deserves a Starting Spot
After a slight dip in playing time early in January, Buzelis has played over 20 minutes in five consecutive games. Over that stretch, he's averaged 13.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, and 2.2 three-pointers per game. His impact has been undeniable, and it’s clear he’s starting to hit his stride.

As Buzelis continues to improve, it’s time for Head Coach Billy Donovan to reward his strong play with a starting role. With LaVine’s departure on February 2, the Bulls no longer have an obvious alpha scorer. Vucevic and Coby White are the closest options, but Vucevic could also be moved soon.

This shift in personnel works to Buzelis’ advantage. With LaVine gone and Patrick Williams removed from the starting five, there’s a noticeable void at wing. Williams has excelled off the bench, so putting him back in the starting lineup could stunt his progress.

While Buzelis’ recent performances speak for themselves, the Bulls desperately need a two-way forward. It’s baffling why Donovan hasn’t yet paired the 20-year-old with the starters. Lonzo Ball and Ayo Dosunmu may be more established right now, but Buzelis' potential is sky-high. He’s already shown glimpses of greatness in limited minutes, and it’s time for him to see more playing time.

The rookie’s minutes should surpass 30 per game. He played a career-high 31 minutes against the Heat, and that should be the new baseline moving forward. Playing alongside the starters against the opposing team’s best defenders will help him continue to develop. Instead of Ball or Dosunmu, Buzelis should be given the starting spot. His fit at power forward is ideal, and his catch-and-shoot ability makes him a seamless fit with Chicago’s talented passers.

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