Chicago Bulls Forward Buzelis Models Game After Deni Avdija

Chicago Bulls forward Metas Buzelis has identified Israeli player Deni Avdija as a role model, expressing a desire to learn from his game and even train with him. Buzelis, 22, who shares similar physical dimensions with Avdija, spoke exclusively to Sport 5 about his admiration for the NBA star.

Buzelis revealed that he and Avdija had planned to train together in Las Vegas over the summer, but the session was postponed due to scheduling conflicts. He anticipates it will happen in the future, preferring face-to-face learning over asking for tips directly. When asked what aspect of Avdija's game he would most like to emulate, Buzelis pointed to Avdija's "bumps", the use of his shoulders to create space against defenders on his way to the basket.

"It's amazing how he uses his shoulders," Buzelis said, explaining that the move requires precise angling to displace strong defenders and can be executed with varying speed. He also praised Avdija's overall game, suggesting he could be an All-Star again.

Buzelis, who is averaging 12.9 points this season, down from 16.3 last year, finds inspiration in Avdija's journey. He noted that while some players excel immediately, others take several years to develop, emphasizing the importance of consistent hard work. Buzelis stated, "You have to keep working hard every day and stay on your path. Time will do its thing."

Bulls coach Tiago Splitter commented on the differences between Avdija and his young forwards, including Buzelis. Splitter described Avdija as playing with significant strength and consistently driving to the paint, using his shoulder to attack the rim. He contrasted this with Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, and Noah Asinga, who he said lack Avdija's specific physicality and tend to score over or around opponents.