Instant Reactions: Bulls return to action, win preseason opener

And we’re back!

In their first game of the NBA Preseason, the Chicago Bulls faced off with the Cleveland Cavaliers 

The starting lineup of Josh Giddey, Kevin Huerter, Isaac Okoro, Matas Buzelis and Nikola Vucevic played just one half, but showed signs of both good and bad. 

Buzelis was the brightest spot, scoring 19 points on 7-of-11 shooting, finishing some crafty layups around the rim and making two-of-five three-point attempts. 

Ayo Dosunmu made his first appearance after a shoulder surgery ended his 2024-25 season early. He showed no signs of rust, scoring 12 points, including a perfect five-of-five in the first quarter. 

Rookie Noa Essengue didn’t enter the game until mid-way through the third quarter, and while he scored on his first possession, he showed flashes of exciting play, but also why he’s a ways away from reliable production. 

Most of the starters on both teams were done by the six-minute mark in the third quarter, but the Bulls were able to claw out a garbage time victory, 118-117. 

Next up: Bulls will host the Cavs for a preseason rematch on Thursday. 

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Gottlieb

The Bulls have talked a big game about physicality during training camp with the idea being that they can improve their defense and close the gap in key areas of the possession battle, like offensive rebounds, turnovers and fouls. 

After sloppily coughing up nine times and falling into an 11-point hole by the end of the first quarter, the Bulls tightened up their play and got back to even by half time. 

They clearly appeared to emphasize drawing charges and pressuring ball handlers but they’ve still got a long way to go. During the first half, the competitive portion of the game, they forced only eight turnovers, allowed six offensive boards and put the Cavs to the line for 12 free throw attempts. 

As the Bulls work to carve out their defensive identity, these key stats will determine whether they can make their way out of the Play-In Tournament in 2026. 

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Peck

I spent all summer hanging on to the last vestiges of my Bulls fan sanity with the hope that Matas Buzelis will turn into a special player in this league. He talked a big game with his Media Day comments, setting big goals for himself and saying he wants to be coached hard.

In his first preseason action of Year 2, Matas looked aggressive and confident within the offense, making the right reads. But that one iso possession he had: beating De’Andre Hunter down the left side with his speed, then fooling Evan Mobley with a gorgeous eurostep finish in the lane…my lord. He also showed heads-up activity on the defensive end. The added muscle from the offseason was noticeable, and he still has the quickness to make blocks in recovery and from the weakside.

Safe to say that I’m not only holding the Matas Stock I bought when the Bulls drafted him. I’m buying more. Much, much more.

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Big Dave

Can I write this whole thing about Yuki Kawamura? No?!? Ok.

The Bulls started out pretty sluggish. They looked uncomfortable on both sides of the ball. 9 turnovers in the 1st quarter. I’m sure Alec Jacoby White not being out there had a lot to do with it but it still, not great. 

The bench, led by Dosunmu and Tre Jones, helped the Bulls get back in the game and helped the team find their rhythm on the floor. It was great to see Ayo back and looking comfortable. Jones as well. I don’t think it will be the last time we will see that combo together.

Matas played well. Definitely gave me several reasons to jump out of my seat and yell positive expletives at the screen. On the other side, Red Velvet (Huerter for those not hip to it) had some polyester in his game. He struggled shooting going 1/7 from the field, turned the bawl over 3 times and had 4 fouls. I expect a better showing from him next game.

Yuki. More Yuki please.