Bulls start 2-0 as Buzelis shines and depth leads the way

The Chicago Bulls opened their 2025-26 season with consecutive wins, beating the Detroit Pistons 115-111 at the United Center on Oct. 22 and then defeating the Orlando Magic 110-98 in Orlando on Oct. 25 to start 2-0. The victories showcased a mix of veteran production, a deep bench and a breakout performance by a young forward, even as the team deals with injuries and areas that need improvement.

In the opener against Detroit, Nikola Vučević led the way with 28 points and 14 rebounds and Josh Giddey recorded a double-double with 19 points and 11 assists. Second-year forward Matas Buzelis scored 21 points, added six rebounds and blocked three shots, including a thunderous fourth-quarter dunk over Isaiah Stewart that drew praise from Vučević, who said, "I’m very proud of Matas. He became a man tonight. He got his first legit poster." Chicago built a 15-point lead entering the fourth quarter, but Detroit rallied to tie the game before the Bulls closed out a four-point win.

Three nights later in Orlando, Giddey paced Chicago with 21 points and eight rebounds, while Jalen Smith contributed 16 off the bench. Ayo Dosunmu and Vučević each scored 15. The Bulls led 83-80 after three...