Drew
@drew-h-stevens.bsky.social
Writer. Basketball. Chicago. Still asking questions.
My concern with Josh Giddey, even before this news, is how his limitations might affect the development of Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis. The Bulls need him to create advantages in the half court. If he can't do so consistently, how hard does that make their development?
The Bulls' loss to Toronto was ugly, but the Raptors are title contenders. Friday's game against Milwaukee, a team that could also be fighting to avoid draft relegation, might tell us more about them. Not just their competitiveness, but the challenges facing their rebuild.
Matas Buzelis' shot diet was a frequent topic of conversation this summer. Caleb Wilson's is worth monitoring, too. He was excellent at the rim in Vegas, but took plenty of jumpers. That continued Wednesday, with Dillon Brooks often checking him. Something to watch.
Bulls preseason opener in the books. Matas Buzelis explored his new freedom. Dailyn Swain got tested as a primary ballhandler. Tobe Awaka made an impact on the offensive glass. Caleb Wilson found the sledding tougher against NBA defenders. That's what stress tests are for.
Drew@drew-h-stevens.bsky.social · 2w agoThe shot hasn't been there for Matas tonight, but I've liked the way he's tried to get downhill. He's created opportunities at the rim for himself, gotten into the paint to create for others and drawn a foul with a cut. That's the part of his first half that's stood out to me.
The shot hasn't been there for Matas tonight, but I've liked the way he's tried to get downhill. He's created opportunities at the rim for himself, gotten into the paint to create for others and drawn a foul with a cut. That's the part of his first half that's stood out to me.
Drew@drew-h-stevens.bsky.social · 2w agoWe've spent a lot of time talking about what Matas Buzelis has said about last season and what's ahead. Fortunately, we're finally at the point where what Matas does matters more than what he says.
We've spent a lot of time talking about what Matas Buzelis has said about last season and what's ahead. Fortunately, we're finally at the point where what Matas does matters more than what he says.
The Bulls aren't going to have a talent advantage every night. So where can Tiago Splitter find advantages elsewhere? “Tagging up” is one place I'll be watching.
CHGO Bulls@chgo-bulls.bsky.social · 3w agoThe Bulls may have to find advantages in unconventional places this season. One area to watch: Coach Splitter’s “tagging up” principle. 🗣️ @drew-h-stevens.bsky.social explains what it is, how it works and how the Bulls could use it this season.
Matas Buzelis has never lacked confidence. In Year 3, I want to see whether he can do more with more — more freedom, more responsibility and more opportunities to create.
CHGO Bulls@chgo-bulls.bsky.social · 3w agoMatas Buzelis has always spoken with confidence. Will his play this year be able to back up those words? 🗣️ @drew-h-stevens.bsky.social breaks it down 📣 @bigdavechgo.bsky.social sums it up