The Chicago Bulls didn’t make any earthshattering moves over the offseason. So, they’re going to need some major internal growth if they’re going to take a step forward compared to last year.
One particular returning rotation player was recently predicted to outperform his current contract with the Bulls during the 2026-27 NBA season.
Matas Buzelis Predicted to Outperform Contract With Chicago Bulls
GettySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 10: Matas Buzelis #14 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles the ball against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on March 10, 2026 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Fadeaway World’s Eddie Bitar listed Bulls third-year forward Matas Buzelis as a player who could play above his paygrade in the coming campaign.
Buzelis will make just $5.7 million for the season, making him the 11th-highest paid player on the team, behind Josh Giddey, Nic Claxton, Normal Powell, Patrick Williams, Isaac Okoro, Caleb Wilson, Jalen Smith, Zach Collins, Tre Jones and Rob Dillingham.
“Matas Buzelis took a major step forward during his second NBA season, and now the Chicago Bulls have every reason to find out just how high his ceiling can go. . . . His growth wasn’t simply statistical, either. Buzelis became a legitimate two-way player capable of spacing the floor and even swatting shots. He averaged 1.5 blocks per game last season, an encouraging number for a 6’8″ forward,” Bitar wrote.
“And then there’s the contract. Buzelis will make only $5.72 million in 2026-27, with a team option for 2027-28 at $7.58 million. If he takes another offensive leap for the talented Bulls team and approaches 20 points per game, Chicago could have one of the best contracts in the NBA with a youngster who keeps getting better.”
This story will be updated.
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Michael Kaskey-Blomain Michael Kaskey-Blomain is an experienced sports media member covering the NBA and NFL for Heavy. He has been in the industry for well over a decade with previous stops including the Philadelphia Inquirer and CBS Sports. Michael also serves as a Philadelphia 76ers reporter and insider for ESPN 97.3 and an NBA and NFL contributor for The Sporting News. More about Michael Kaskey-Blomain
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