Buzelis Shines Bright with 19 Points in Bulls Narrow Preseason Victory Over Cavaliers

Matas Buzelis made an impressive debut in the 2025 NBA Preseason opener for the Chicago Bulls, scoring a game-high 19 points in a narrow 118-117 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena.

The revitalized Lithuanian forward showcased an aggressive and efficient style as he kicked off his second season in the league on Tuesday, shooting 7-of-11 from the field while also contributing eight rebounds, one block, and one assist in just over 18 minutes of play. His fellow starting teammate, Montenegrin Nikola Vucevic, played for 19 minutes, contributing three points and six rebounds. Coming off the bench, French player Noa Essengue added eight points and five rebounds in 13 minutes.

In the fourth quarter, Dutch player Tristan Enaruna represented the Cavaliers, scoring three points and grabbing one rebound, while French teammate Killian Hayes recorded two points, two assists, and one steal. After this initial exhibition match in Cleveland, the Bulls and Cavaliers are set to clash again at the United Center in Chicago on Thursday.

In another thrilling preseason matchup at the Target Center, the Indiana Pacers edged out the Minnesota Timberwolves in overtime, 135-134. For the Timberwolves, Rudy Gobert started and finished with five points, four rebounds, one block, and one steal. His French counterpart, Joan Beringer, added four points, while Italian Donte DiVincenzo contributed three.

The slate of preseason games will continue until next Friday, leading up to the start of the regular season on October 21. The Bulls will kick off their season at home against the Detroit Pistons, the Cavaliers will face off against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, and the Timberwolves will go up against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on October 22.

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