Bulls Secure Buzelis’ Third-Year Option; Randle Comfortable in Minnesota; Walker Eyes Larger Pacers Role
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CHICAGO — The Chicago Bulls have picked up the third-year team option on forward Matas Buzelis, guaranteeing his $5.72 million salary for the 2026-27 season. The 11th overall pick in last year’s draft is set to earn $5.46 million in 2025-26. Chicago will have until November 2026 to decide on his fourth-year option, valued at $7.58 million.
Buzelis, 6-foot-10, averaged 5.0 points and 2.7 rebounds on 38.6 percent shooting through his first 45 games, but surged after the All-Star break with 13.3 points and 4.5 rebounds over his final 35 outings, earning NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors. He is the fourth player league-wide whose option for 2026-27 has been exercised ahead of the Oct. 31 deadline.
Timberwolves
MINNEAPOLIS — Forward Julius Randle said he is “probably the happiest I’ve been in a really long time” as he begins his second year with the Minnesota Timberwolves, citing both his career and family life.
Veteran guard Mike Conley, who turns 38 next week, reported a markedly different offseason after battling injuries the previous summer. “As soon as we got out of the playoffs, I was back in my routines,” Conley said. He posted career lows in points, minutes and usage last season but has been noticeably more aggressive in training camp. Team officials believe increased opportunities to run the offense could spark a bounce-back year.
Pacers
INDIANAPOLIS — Third-year forward Jarace Walker is pushing for a larger role after averaging 14.1 minutes across his first 108 NBA games. “It’s difficult being a top-10 pick,” coach Rick Carlisle said, noting the crowded frontcourt. Carlisle praised Walker’s conditioning and effort early in camp, adding that the 6-foot-8 forward has “positioned himself to be a major factor.” Walker said he drew inspiration from Pascal Siakam and remains motivated after missing last season’s NBA Finals with a sprained ankle.
Guard Kyle Guy, the former Virginia standout, joined Indiana on an Exhibit 10 deal after planning to serve as an assistant coach at Nevada. He expects to start the year with the Pacers’ G League affiliate in Noblesville and hopes to earn an NBA roster spot. “I’m not an idiot. I don’t know if that’s in the cards right now, but after I get my feet under me and play for the Boom, I think I could make those things happen down the road,” Guy said.
Source: Hoops Wire
