Tiago Splitter defends Matas Buzelis benching decision in win over Bucks appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Chicago Bulls defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 132-125 in their first win of the season. However, they finished the game without most of their starters, except Caleb Wilson and Norman Powell.
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One notable starter on the bench was Matas Buzelis, who finished with 7 points and played 17 minutes. Instead, head coach Tiago Splitter chose to put in Tre Jones and Issac Okoro to provide a boost. Josh Giddey also sat with Buzelis.
On Friday, before the Bulls played their home opener against the Washington Wizards, Splitter explained his justification for keeping Buzelis on the bench, per Gavin Dorsey of Bulls Roundtable. More than anything, Splitter cautioned those who expressed concern about Buzelis’ playing status. Essentially, Splitter was focused on doing what was best for the team.
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“We’re making this a bigger deal than we should be,” Splitter said. “It’s just basketball. You’re not having a great night; you play a little bit less. Not a big deal.”
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Buzelis is beginning his junior season in Chicago. He’s a key piece of their transition offense, able to explode, shoot from the outside, and take it to the cup. However, this season, the hope is for Buzelis to shoot more mid-range, something he didn’t do often under Billy Donovan.
During the offseason, Buzelis looked to build muscle to become a stronger player. Additionally, with a player like Wilson in the lineup, it can help take some of the pressure off Buzelis to rise to the occasion.
So far, Buzelis is averaging 12.0 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
Related: Tiago Splitter explains approach to adjusting starting lineups after Bucks win
Related: Caleb Wilson makes a bold declaration after first NBA win with Bulls
