Matas Buzelis exits Bulls/Grizzlies clash with right ankle injury

The Chicago Bulls hosted the Memphis Grizzlies for their second preseason game on Friday at the United Center. The ever-so-explosive Matas Buzelis didn’t finish the whole thing.

At the 4:38 mark of the 2nd quarter, Buzelis left the game with what turned out to be a right ankle injury. As a result, the Bulls announced that Buzelis won’t be returning.

In the 1st quarter, Buzelis was briefly taken out of the game after falling hard to the floor going for a block. However, he returned in full uniform and reentered the game.

Altogether, he played 12 minutes, scoring 6 points and shooting 3-for-6 from the field.

The Bulls are coming off a preseason debut win on Wednesday against the Phoenix Suns, 124-117. Buzelis finished the game with 14 points, shooting 6-for-15 from the field, and 3 rebounds.

However, he went 0-for-6 from the 3-point range.

This season, Buzelis is expected to help ignite a renewed Chicago frontcourt alongside Caleb Wilson and Nic Claxton. Buzelis is known for his high-flying style of play, his 3-point shooting, and his quickness in transition. A combination that mirrors Wilson’s. Last year, Buzelis averaged 16.3 points. 5.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. Additionally, he also shot 46.3% from the field and 34.9% from the 3-point line.

He played in 77 games. Last season, Buzelis sustained a few minor injuries, including an ankle injury against the Oklahoma City Thunder in March. He suffered a similar injury against the Orlando Magic in April.

During the offseason, Buzelis made it a point to bulk up and add muscle to match his skill.

Buzelis’s full status is still unknown.