For most NBA players, entering their second year means staying humble and working quietly. But Matas Buzelis isn’t like most players. The 20-year-old Bulls forward has a mindset that separates him from his peers, and he’s not afraid to share exactly how high his ceiling can reach.
Can Matas Buzelis Really Become the Best Player in NBA History?
Initially doubted for his readiness at the professional level, Buzelis steadily erased those concerns through standout rookie performances. Though far from a finished product, he’s set to continue refining his game in the Bulls’ upcoming training camp.
Buzelis didn’t hesitate when asked about his long-term outlook. Sitting down with K.C. Johnson, the 20-year-old shared his mindset with rare clarity.
“What’s my ceiling? I-I don’t know. I think I could be the best. I mean, that’s just how I think,” Buzelis said. “I always believe- I always think- I could be the best. So I never put a limit on anything for me. That’s just how I was raised. I think I could be the best player ever. That’s just how I think. And if you don’t think like that, I mean – it’s not the sport for you.”
What Are Buzelis’ Goals for the 2025-26 Season?
Now entering his second season, Buzelis has set a clear objective for the 2025-26 season.
“Win as many games as possible,” he said. “It’s obviously going to be a tough season. Every year is a tough season, so I’d say just win as many games as possible. Everything comes down to winning at the end of the day. Everything comes down to winning, so every minute detail, from recovery to going to the gym early to working hard in practice, it’s all going to matter. I want to win.”
Buzelis has already shown flashes of what’s possible. He tallied 28 points in Monday’s 114-105 Summer League win against the Pacers, shooting 8-of-14 from the field, 2-of-4 from deep, and 10-of-13 on free throws. He also recorded five rebounds, one assist, one steal, and one block in 32 minutes.
Matas Buzelis (28 PTS) put on a SHOW in the @chicagobulls #NBA2KSummerLeague win 🤩 pic.twitter.com/1S5xcqhDoY
— NBA TV (@NBATV) July 15, 2025
Over two Summer League games, Buzelis made 17-of-20 free throws and showed a willingness to attack the basket and draw contact. His aggressive approach matched the confidence he displayed late last season, when he averaged 13.6 points and 5.0 rebounds on 48.7 percent shooting across 26.9 minutes per game over his final 22 appearances.
Buzelis confirmed that he won’t play again in the Summer League, signaling the end of his offseason game action. He will now shift his focus toward training camp with a Bulls team returning most of its core.
The only significant changes include drafting Noa Essengue in the lottery and acquiring Isaac Okoro in a trade that sent Lonzo Ball to the Cavaliers. Chicago is also working to bring back Josh Giddey after finishing 39-43 this past season.
