CHICAGO — As training camp got underway on Sept. 30, the Chicago Bulls reiterated that internal growth, not the win-loss column, will guide the 2025-26 season.
Matas Buzelis, coming off a rookie year in which he averaged 8.6 points and 3.5 rebounds across 80 games, set an ambitious personal goal. “I want to win Most Improved Player this year,” the 20-year-old forward said. “The individual stuff will come if you win, so I’m worried about winning.”
Injury updates
Executive vice president Artūras Karnišovas said Coby White remains limited by the right calf strain he sustained in August. “Hopefully, we can see him by end of preseason,” Karnišovas noted. White’s availability for the Oct. 29 opener is still uncertain.
Meanwhile, guards Ayo Dosunmu (shoulder surgery in March) and Tre Jones (left foot sprain) have been cleared for full participation.
Role acceptance
Newly acquired wing Isaac Okoro, part of the Lonzo Ball trade, said he plans to maintain his defensive-first mindset. “Everyone in this league wants to score 20,” Okoro said. “In Cleveland I guarded the best player on the other team, being the hustle guy, and I don’t mind that.”
Organizational outlook
Karnišovas emphasized that patience remains the franchise’s guiding principle. “We have to be patient. We can’t skip steps. For this team next year, we’ve got to show growth,” he told reporters.
Giddey locked in long term
Restricted free agent Josh Giddey finalized a four-year contract earlier this month and said he never seriously considered another destination. “This was where I wanted to be,” the 22-year-old guard said. “They embraced me from day one.”
The Bulls open preseason play on Oct. 7 against Milwaukee.
Source: HoopsRumors
