Kevin Durant sees potential in Matas Buzelis and believes the young forward has the tools to improve as he gains more experience in the NBA.
Following the Phoenix Suns’ 121-117 victory over the Chicago Bulls, Durant spoke about Buzelis’ skill set and development. “I like Matas. I liked him when he was with G League Ignite. He’s long, athletic, can shoot it,” Durant said. “He’s definitely going to have some bumps and bruises as he gets through his first few years in the league trying to figure things out.”
Durant emphasized that playing time will be key to Buzelis’ growth. “The more experience, the more reps he gets as a starter, the better he’ll become,” Durant said. “Billy’s giving him more opportunities. Just play. I hear [Donovan] on the sidelines, ‘Attack. Shoot the ball. Be aggressive.’ His teammates encourage him. Playing will make you a better player.”
Buzelis, 20, is averaging 6.3 points and 2.9 rebounds in 15 minutes per game for the Bulls this season. His role has increased in recent weeks, with Chicago head coach Billy Donovan giving him more opportunities to contribute.
The Bulls, however, have struggled, dropping their sixth straight game after falling to the Suns. Despite a strong start, Chicago (22-35) couldn’t hold off Phoenix’s offensive surge. Josh Giddey led the Bulls with 24 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds, while Buzelis added 15 points.
Durant, who finished with 27 points and 10 rebounds, acknowledged the excitement surrounding Buzelis’ development. “Just like the rest of Chicago, I’m going to sit back and watch and see what happens from here. I got high expectations just like you guys do.”
Devin Booker led Phoenix with 29 points and eight assists, while Bradley Beal added 25 in his return to the starting lineup. The Suns snapped a four-game losing streak and improved to 27-29, though they remain outside the Western Conference playoff picture.
Phoenix struggled early, missing its first seven shots and shooting 29.2% in the first quarter. Chicago capitalized on the slow start, building a 10-point lead behind a buzzer-beater from Tre Jones.
The Suns responded in the second quarter, hitting 16 of 21 shots to take a two-point lead at halftime. They extended their advantage to 12 in the third, but the Bulls fought back to make it a one-possession game in the closing minutes.
Coby White tied the game at 111 before cutting Chicago’s deficit to three with another clutch basket. Beal then delivered the dagger, sinking a three-pointer from the left wing to put the game out of reach.
The Suns were more efficient at the free-throw line, going 25-of-28 compared to the Bulls’ 17-of-17. Phoenix also committed just 11 personal fouls, while Chicago racked up 21.
The Bulls remain 10th in the Eastern Conference as they fight for a play-in spot. They will look to end their losing streak in their next game. Phoenix, meanwhile, continues its five-game road trip with hopes of building momentum.
