Bulls Coach Billy Donovan Takes Note of Matas Buzelis' Unselfishness, Bulls Struggle in High-Profile Matchup.
Coach Billy Donovan has been monitoring forward Matas Buzelis' every move this season. Buzelis made headlines earlier in the year by declining an invitation to participate in the NBA's dunk contest and instead focusing on his team-first approach, citing a desire to "listen to [his] body" as he prepares for a stretch of games.
Donovan praised Buzelis' decision, acknowledging that it requires immense discipline. While being around a high-profile player like Buzelis can be challenging mentally and physically, Donovan appreciates the effort put in by his players. The Bulls coach notes that Buzelis has had to adapt to new responsibilities as a key contributor on the team.
Buzelis competed in last year's NBA dunk contest but didn't advance past the preliminary round. He had limited playing time that season and admitted that he wasn't adequately prepared for the event, citing a lack of practice time. This season, Buzelis has seen significant improvement, averaging 27.8 minutes per game and starting all 47 games.
Despite his strong performance, Bulls coach Billy Donovan noted that Buzelis tends to "fight through" injuries and fatigue. However, with an upcoming stretch of challenging games ahead, Donovan recognizes the importance of ensuring Buzelis prioritizes his well-being.
Meanwhile, backup center Zach Collins remains sidelined due to a right toe injury. While there's still uncertainty surrounding his timeline for return, Donovan is optimistic that Collins will be cleared for running and conditioning in two weeks. However, before he can resume full contact practices, Collins needs to demonstrate significant improvement on his injured foot.
In other news, guard Tre Jones stayed behind with the rehab staff to continue working on his hamstring injury. Unlike Collins, who faces an uncertain road to recovery, Jones' prognosis is considered better, and he's expected to make progress quickly. The hope is that Jones will be able to return soon, but for now, the Bulls are relying on him making steady strides in his rehabilitation.
As the trade deadline approaches, speculation surrounding Coby White continues to swirl. Executive Vice President Arturas Karnisovas has expressed a willingness to explore deals that could enhance the team's chances of success. However, it remains unclear whether White will be part of those discussions or remain with the Bulls.
Coach Billy Donovan has been monitoring forward Matas Buzelis' every move this season. Buzelis made headlines earlier in the year by declining an invitation to participate in the NBA's dunk contest and instead focusing on his team-first approach, citing a desire to "listen to [his] body" as he prepares for a stretch of games.
Donovan praised Buzelis' decision, acknowledging that it requires immense discipline. While being around a high-profile player like Buzelis can be challenging mentally and physically, Donovan appreciates the effort put in by his players. The Bulls coach notes that Buzelis has had to adapt to new responsibilities as a key contributor on the team.
Buzelis competed in last year's NBA dunk contest but didn't advance past the preliminary round. He had limited playing time that season and admitted that he wasn't adequately prepared for the event, citing a lack of practice time. This season, Buzelis has seen significant improvement, averaging 27.8 minutes per game and starting all 47 games.
Despite his strong performance, Bulls coach Billy Donovan noted that Buzelis tends to "fight through" injuries and fatigue. However, with an upcoming stretch of challenging games ahead, Donovan recognizes the importance of ensuring Buzelis prioritizes his well-being.
Meanwhile, backup center Zach Collins remains sidelined due to a right toe injury. While there's still uncertainty surrounding his timeline for return, Donovan is optimistic that Collins will be cleared for running and conditioning in two weeks. However, before he can resume full contact practices, Collins needs to demonstrate significant improvement on his injured foot.
In other news, guard Tre Jones stayed behind with the rehab staff to continue working on his hamstring injury. Unlike Collins, who faces an uncertain road to recovery, Jones' prognosis is considered better, and he's expected to make progress quickly. The hope is that Jones will be able to return soon, but for now, the Bulls are relying on him making steady strides in his rehabilitation.
As the trade deadline approaches, speculation surrounding Coby White continues to swirl. Executive Vice President Arturas Karnisovas has expressed a willingness to explore deals that could enhance the team's chances of success. However, it remains unclear whether White will be part of those discussions or remain with the Bulls.
... like matas buzeliš doin' that. decline a high-profile gig to focus on his team's needs? it's a pretty selfless move, but it makes you wonder what drives someone to put others first, even when it means sacrificin' their own desires 
. is it just about the greater good, or is there somethin' more at play here? 
he's being so humble about his role in the team and prioritizing his health over individual achievements... i gotta admit, it's kinda refreshing to see a high-profile player like him not letting ego get the best of him 
but at the same time, you can tell he's not gonna be able to avoid injuries for too long - he's been playing with some intensity that's bound to catch up to him eventually 
meanwhile, Coby White's still gettin paid 20 mil a yr and can't even crack the starting lineup 
what's the point of makin all these moves if nobody's gettin decent results? 