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Matas Buzelis‘ Role with Lithuanian National Team Uncertain Amid NBA Summer League Plans
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Lithuanian basketball fans are eagerly awaiting a decision from Chicago Bulls player matas Buzelis regarding his potential participation in the upcoming European Championship, set to begin on August 27. while the 20-year-old has expressed interest in representing Lithuania in the future, his commitment to the NBA Summer League with the Bulls creates uncertainty about his role this summer.
Buzelis’ Summer League Commitment
According to Bulls CEO Marc Eversley, Buzelis is expected to participate in the team’s summer League camp, scheduled for July 10-20 in Las Vegas.The extent of his participation in the Summer League games remains unclear. This commitment overlaps with the Lithuanian national team’s readiness camp, which is slated to begin in mid-July.
Did You Know? The NBA Summer League is a crucial platform for teams to evaluate rookies, younger players, and potential NBA talents.
Potential for post-Summer League Contribution
Theoretically, Buzelis could join the lithuanian national team after the NBA Summer League concludes. NBA regulations permit players to join their national teams up to one month before a major championship. This allowance enabled Jonas Valanciunas and Domantas Sabonis to contribute to the Lithuanian team in previous years. Though, it remains doubtful whether Buzelis will participate in the European Championship this summer.
Buzelis’ Improved Performance in Debut Season
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his national team commitment, Buzelis has shown critically important improvement during his debut NBA season. Initially, he averaged 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1 assist. However, in the final 35 games, his performance surged to an remarkable 13.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per game.
Pro Tip: Tracking a player’s performance trends over a season can reveal valuable insights into their development and potential.
Eversley highlighted Buzelis’ growth as an example for othre young players in Chicago, stating that his “second part of the season was amazing.” He emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and teamwork, noting that Buzelis’ late-season performance exceeded expectations.
Bulls Draft Noa Essengue, Comparisons to Buzelis Emerge
During the NBA Rookie Exchange, the Chicago Bulls selected Noa Essengue, an 18-year-old Frenchman from Ulm Ratiopharm in Germany. Essengue’s performance in the EuroCup, where he averaged 12.9 points and 5.2 rebounds, caught the Bulls’ attention. In the German league, he contributed 10 points and 4.9 rebounds.
Eversley drew comparisons between Essengue and Buzelis, noting their similar “lightness, versatility, opportunities to exchange defense players.” He emphasized that the Bulls are seeking young, athletic, and dynamic players to align with the team’s vision.
The Bulls’ strategy focuses on building a competitive team through the acquisition of young talent that fits their desired style of play. The team hopes that Essengue, like Buzelis, will contribute to this vision.
NBA Rookie Exchange Summary
Kaspar Jakučioni was selected by the Miami Heat. The Chicago Bulls selected Noa Ess
