Matas Buzelis battling flu-like symptoms

Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis said he was dealing with flu-like symptoms following the loss to the Washington Wizards at the United Center. The 22-year-old Lithuanian player reminded reporters that, despite scoring 21 points on 7-of-13 shooting in the game, his team sits 1-2 at the start of the 2026-27 season.

Buzelis admitted his conditioning was not where it should be during the first week of the season. Averaging 12 points over the first two games, the player did not take the floor in the final period of the second contest. "To be honest, I didn't feel good," he said, summarizing his condition, and added that it is not an excuse.

Buzelis said the discomfort he felt in practice and in the game has passed today, and that he is working to fit into the team's play. The young forward said the coaches trust him and that he believes the work will pay off.

The Chicago player said that under new head coach Tiago Splitter he has been asked to be more aggressive on the offensive glass. He noted that this role demands a lot of energy, and said that getting back quickly after a steal and running constantly are the hardest parts.

The Bulls will face the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on Monday in their next game of the season.