The Chicago Bulls are making strides in their quest for a playoff spot and are set to have a notable presence during the upcoming NBA All-Star Weekend. Currently holding onto the ninth seed in the Eastern Conference as they approach Monday’s games, the Bulls are demonstrating their competitive edge. Among the highlights of the weekend is rookie forward Matas Buzelis, who has been selected to participate in the 2026 Rising Stars Game.
The announcement came Monday, revealing that Buzelis will represent the Bulls in the annual showcase that features the league’s top rookies, sophomores, and G-League talents. Buzelis, who is enjoying a strong season, is averaging 14.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 0.7 steals in 28.0 minutes per game, showcasing his development as a reliable starter. His shooting percentages reflect consistency, mirroring last year’s performance with splits of 47.5% from the field, 35.9% from three-point range, and 78.0% from the free-throw line.
Having missed last season’s Rising Stars Game, this opportunity presents Buzelis a platform to demonstrate his growth and skill in front of a wider audience. Ahead of a pivotal matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers, he expressed his excitement regarding the accolade. “It means a lot. Anytime you have an accolade in the NBA, it’s truly a blessing and honor. Hopefully, we can have some more,” Buzelis remarked.
This recognition is a positive indicator for the future of the Bulls and highlights Buzelis as a rising talent within the league. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be eager to monitor his development and the impact he can make in helping lead the team forward. The enthusiasm surrounding Buzelis and the Bulls is palpable, and this year’s All-Star Weekend could be a significant milestone for the budding star.