SportSpyder - The Latest Chicago Bulls Podcasts

BULLS TRAINING CAMP: How Will Tiago Splitter Use Jalen Smith, Zach Collins? | CHGO Bulls Podcast

Will Gottlieb, Big Dave, Matt Peck — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 22:05:13 GMT

PRESS CONFERENCE: Tiago Splitter, Zach Collins & Jalen Smith on Bulls’ NEW FRONTCOURT ROTATION

ALLCITY Network — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 20:43:51 GMT

Tiago Splitter, Zach Collins and Jalen Smith speak with the media about the Chicago Bulls’ new frontcourt rotation ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season. Splitter discusses how he plans to utilize his big men, while Collins and Smith address their roles and the importance of staying healthy.

00:00 Tiago Splitter

10:00 Zach Collins

16:49 Jalen Smith

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Tiago Splitter Sends A MESSAGE: Isaac Okoro Will Play A LOT… So Who Loses Minutes? 👀🐂

Locked On Podcast Network — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 15:27:53 GMT

On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer react to Splitter calling Isaac Okoro “probably our best perimeter defender” and making it clear that Okoro is going to play a lot of minutes during the 2026-27 NBA season.
That immediately creates a major rotation question: if Okoro is playing a lot, whose minutes are getting squeezed?
With Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, and Nic Claxton expected to make up the starting five, Okoro could become one of Tiago’s most trusted bench pieces and potentially a late-game defensive closer. But what does that mean for Patrick Williams, Leonard Miller, Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, and the rest of Chicago’s crowded wing rotation?
Haize and Pat also dive into the bigger story emerging from training camp: is the Bulls culture actually changing under Tiago Splitter?
Matas Buzelis has described the first practices as some of the best training-camp experiences he has had, while Caleb Wilson has emphasized the physicality, players diving on the floor, and the competitive tone being established early.
Splitter is also preaching a more aggressive defensive philosophy — picking players up higher, attacking screens, dictating where opposing offenses go and using Nic Claxton’s rim protection behind them.
Is this simply normal training-camp optimism? Or are we finally seeing an actual identity being installed?

🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down Isaac Okoro’s expanded role, whether Tiago Splitter is truly changing the Bulls culture, and why Chicago’s smartest final roster move may be no move at all.

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2026 Bulls Media Day and a Buddy Hield trade!

Jason Patt, Ricky O'Donnell — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 12:00:00 GMT

2026 Bulls Media Day arrived Monday to officially tip off training camp, but before that, the Bulls traded Rob Dillingham to the Hornets for Buddy Hield. Dillingham was almost immediately waived by the Hornets, while Hield will bring a veteran presence, elite shooting and a possible trade chip to Chicago.

After breaking down the Hield trade, Ricky and Jason go through their biggest takeaways from Media Day. Bryson Graham and Tiago Splitter got the ball rolling and stressed that the Bulls are at the ground floor of a rebuild and that this upcoming season will focus on development. But while there may not be a lot of wins this season, there can still be plenty of fun.

Graham also discussed his first offseason in charge and noted the trade market didn't develop as hoped when it came to acquiring more draft assets, so he used the Bulls' robust cap space to acquire vets Nic Claxton and Norman Powell to improve the floor of the team. The Bulls still have flexibility and there will be more opportunities for moves during the season, but Graham isn't going to mortgage the future for short-term gain. Graham is talking the talk so far, but he needs to prove soon he can walk th walk.

On the injury front, Zach Collins is predictably already hurting, though he should be back relatively soon. Josh Giddey is at 100% after offseason ankle surgery, and everybody else is good to go.

As for the biggest player storylines, everything revolves around Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis. The hype train is going full steam ahead for Wilson, though Graham wants to temper expectations and not go too overboard. Buzelis is looking forward to more "freedom" on both ends of the court, and his shot diet is going to be a big talking point this season as he looks to diversify his offensive skill set and take more mid-range shots. Fans will be paying close attention to how Splitter handles Wilson and Buzelis after complaints of Billy Donovan's short leash for Buzelis.

How rookie Dailyn Swain bounces back from a terrible Summer League will also be something to watch, and Splitter noted it has been a night and day difference at training camp. There hasn't been a whole lot about Noa Essengue, but Splitter noted he's looking aggressive early in camp.

The Bulls will have about a week of training camp before their first preseason game on Oct. 7 against the Suns.

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Jalen Duren’s $200M STANDOFF Could Change Bulls Future 👀 + Which Bulls Should Get PAID?!

The B.R.E.A.K.S Media — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 11:30:02 GMT

Could Jalen Duren’s contract situation eventually change how the Chicago Bulls view their long-term center position? Could Patrick Williams find new value as a small-ball five? And which Bulls have actually earned long-term extensions?

On today’s episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down three roster-building questions that could shape Bryson Graham’s next phase of the rebuild.

First, Jalen Duren.

Detroit’s contract standoff has created an interesting future possibility, but this is NOT a report that Chicago is pursuing Duren. The Bulls angle is simple: if Duren eventually reaches the market, should Chicago preserve enough flexibility to seriously consider a 22-year-old center coming off an All-Star and All-NBA season?

And there’s an important deadline distinction: October 1 is the qualifying-offer acceptance deadline—not an absolute deadline for Detroit and Duren to negotiate a long-term contract.

The bigger Bulls question is how much better Duren would actually make Chicago compared with Nic Claxton, who is already under contract and now gets an entire season to prove whether he can become the defensive anchor this young core needs.

Then we get into Patrick Williams. 👀

With Dailyn Swain improving, Isaac Okoro earning major defensive praise, Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson locked into developmental priority and Leonard Miller/Noa Essengue competing for opportunities, Patrick needs a defined reason to be on the court.

Could that reason be small-ball center?

Haize breaks down what the experiment would actually require—screening, switching, rebounding, quick decisions and physicality—and why simply writing “C” next to Patrick’s name does NOT solve his longstanding issue with passivity.

And finally…

💰 Nic Claxton, Leonard Miller, Jalen Smith and Isaac Okoro are all extension-eligible.

But being eligible is not the same thing as earning a long-term commitment.

Chicago has to decide:

🔥 Is Claxton worth securing before his current deal gets closer to expiration?

🌱 Can Leonard Miller turn upside into a dependable NBA role?

🎯 Is Jalen Smith’s shooting too valuable to risk losing?

🔒 Does Okoro’s perimeter defense outweigh his offensive limitations?

Every decision should come back to one question:

Does this player make Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson better while preserving Chicago’s ability to address a bigger weakness later?

🔥 On today’s Chicago Bulls Central:

👀 Why Jalen Duren belongs on Chicago’s long-term watchlist
💰 What Duren’s contract decision actually means
🐂 Claxton vs. Duren as a future roster-building question
😳 Patrick Williams at small-ball center?
🔄 A lineup that could give Patrick a clearly defined offensive role
💪 The rebounding problem with P-Will at the five
💵 Four Bulls eligible for extensions
🎯 Jalen Smith’s unique value
🔒 Isaac Okoro’s long-term case
🌱 Leonard Miller’s upside vs. guaranteed money
🧠 How Bryson Graham should approach every long-term commitment

💬 If Jalen Duren eventually becomes unrestricted, would you prioritize him—or spend that money on a high-level scoring guard?

AND…

Which extension would you do first: Claxton, Miller, Jalen Smith or Okoro?

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Training Camp Day Two: Matas & Caleb Are Already Going AT IT 😳🐂 + Splitter Gives Okoro A HUGE Role

The B.R.E.A.K.S Media — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 11:02:28 GMT

Chicago Bulls training camp is only getting started, and Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Isaac Okoro and Noa Essengue are already giving Bulls fans plenty to talk about.

On today’s episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down the biggest takeaways from the latest Bulls practice availability—and the early signs that Tiago Splitter’s vision for this roster is beginning to take shape.

First, Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson.

Matas says Caleb already feels like his “brother” and “twin,” but don’t mistake that chemistry for a lack of competition. The two young forwards have already played together, matched up against one another in camp and, in Matas’ words:

🔥 “We try to kill each other on the court. That’s how we’re gonna get better.”

That may be EXACTLY what Chicago needs.

Matas also said he expects to defend positions 1 through 4 this season, while the Bulls’ increased size with Nic Claxton, Caleb Wilson and Leonard Miller is giving the defense more freedom to be aggressive.

Then we get into Isaac Okoro.

Tiago Splitter called Okoro probably the Bulls’ best perimeter defender, described him as “relentless” defensively and made it clear he expects Okoro to play significant minutes and help Chicago win games.

That has major implications for the Bulls’ rotation.

PLUS…

👀 Noa Essengue has reportedly been extremely aggressive through the opening two days of camp.

After all the offseason conversation about Noa’s motor, development and possible Windy City assignments, that is exactly the type of early response Bulls fans should want to hear.

And Matas had high praise for camp overall, calling the first practice the best training-camp day he had ever been part of—and saying the next day was even better.

🔥 On today’s Chicago Bulls Central:

- 😳 Matas + Caleb already battling in practice

- 🤝 Why Matas calls Caleb his “brother” and “twin”

- 🔒 Matas expecting to guard 1 through 4

- 💪 How Claxton and Chicago’s size can unlock an aggressive defense

- 🧠 Why Matas is loving the competitiveness and attention to detail

- 🔥 Tiago Splitter’s BIG praise for Isaac Okoro

- 👀 Noa Essengue reportedly attacking camp aggressively

- 🩺 Zach Collins continuing individual work and cardio while not yet ready for contact

- 🐂 What all of this says about the Bulls’ new culture under Splitter

💬 What’s your biggest takeaway so far: Matas + Caleb pushing each other, Okoro’s major defensive role, or Noa coming out aggressive?

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Chicago Bulls 2026-27 Season Preview

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 01:33:39 GMT

Were Bulls Fans WRONG About Dailyn Swain?! Caleb Wilson Guarding PGs

Locked On Podcast Network — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 22:44:40 GMT

Chicago Bulls training camp is already forcing fans to reconsider some offseason assumptions — especially when it comes to Dailyn Swain and Caleb Wilson. 👀🐂
On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down the early buzz surrounding Dailyn Swain, who has reportedly looked dramatically different from the player Bulls fans saw during Summer League. After an uneven showing in Las Vegas, Swain is now getting praise for his aggression, paint attacks, defensive versatility, and willingness to take on difficult assignments.
So did Bulls fans judge him too quickly?
The guys discuss whether Swain can turn his defensive tools and growing confidence into a legitimate role in Tiago Splitter’s rotation, or whether spending significant time with the Windy City Bulls would still be the best path for his development.
Haize and Pat also dive into one of the most interesting developments from training camp: the Bulls challenging Caleb Wilson to defend on the perimeter — including potentially guarding point guards.
Could Wilson become Chicago’s defensive chess piece? His size, athleticism, length, and mobility already give him intriguing upside, but if he can legitimately switch onto guards, the Bulls could build extremely versatile defensive combinations around Wilson, Matas Buzelis, and Nic Claxton.
The guys debate what would matter more for Caleb’s rookie season: becoming a major scorer immediately or establishing himself as an elite multi-positional defender.
Plus, they revisit the Jalen Duren situation in Detroit and whether Bryson Graham should continue monitoring it. With Duren’s future creating uncertainty, should the Bulls stay ready if a young All-Star-caliber center eventually becomes available? Or does having Claxton already make a major investment in Duren unnecessary?
Topics Include:
- Dailyn Swain impressing at Bulls training camp
- Did fans overreact to Swain’s Summer League struggles?
- Swain’s path to real NBA rotation minutes
- Caleb Wilson guarding point guards?
- Caleb’s defensive versatility and ceiling
- Tiago Splitter’s defensive vision for Chicago
- Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson and Nic Claxton together defensively
- Jalen Duren’s situation with Detroit
- Should the Bulls monitor Duren long-term?
- Claxton vs. Duren as potential long-term center options
- Bulls training camp storylines
Training camp is only beginning, but the Bulls are already showing signs that development, versatility, and defense could become major parts of their new identity under Tiago Splitter.
🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down Dailyn Swain’s early redemption story, Caleb Wilson’s surprising defensive role, and whether the Bulls should keep watching Jalen Duren’s situation in Detroit.

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BULLS TRAINING CAMP: Matas Buzelis Says Practices Are “Way More Aggressive” | CHGO Bulls Podcast

Will Gottlieb, Big Dave, Matt Peck — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 22:14:24 GMT

PRESS CONFERENCE: Tiago Splitter, Buzelis & Okoro Talk Bulls’ NEW DEFENSIVE IDENTITY! | CHGO Bulls

ALLCITY Network — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 20:46:28 GMT

Tiago Splitter, Matas Buzelis and Isaac Okoro speak to the media as the Chicago Bulls continue preparations for the upcoming NBA season. Buzelis discusses the Bulls’ more aggressive defensive approach through the first two training-camp practices, while Okoro addresses his role and expectations under Splitter. The Bulls are looking to establish a new defensive identity with Splitter leading the team, making these early practices an important look at what Chicago could bring this season.

00:00 Tiago Splitter

06:01 Matas Buzelis

10:37 Isaac Okoro

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Taking stock of the Chicago Bulls roster for 2026-27

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Dan and Jason Bernstein take a comprehensive look at the Bulls roster heading into the 2026-27 season, breaking down the team's strengths, weaknesses, and biggest question marks as expectations begin to take shape.

0:00 The Bulls roster for 2026-27

25:30 New NBA rule

34:00 The Showdown

From key contributors to players who could determine the team's ceiling, the guys evaluate where the Bulls stand entering the new year.

They also discuss a newly enforced NBA rule that could have a significant impact on offensive players across the league and what it may mean for scoring and game flow this season. Plus, Dan and Jason wrap things up with another spirited edition of the Showdown.

#chicagosports #chicago #sportstalk #danbernstein #chicagobulls #bulls

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✅ Organization Win Championships: A Chicago Bulls Podcast 🏀

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Shaq Says Matas Will Be A FORCE 😳🐂 + Should Bulls WATCH Jalen Suggs?!

The B.R.E.A.K.S Media — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 11:33:16 GMT

Shaquille O’Neal believes Matas Buzelis could become “a force to be reckoned with” in roughly two years—but what does Chicago need to accomplish before Matas gets there? And should the Bulls be monitoring Jalen Suggs if Orlando eventually shakes up its core?

On today’s episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize dives into three major Bulls storylines that could shape both the short-term rotation and the long-term rebuild.

First, we discuss Jalen Suggs.

ESPN’s recent preseason reporting raised questions about whether Orlando could revisit larger roster changes if its new coaching direction fails to improve how the group fits together. That does not mean the Bulls are pursuing Suggs or that Orlando has made him available—but it creates an interesting basketball question:

Would Suggs make sense as a long-term backcourt partner for Josh Giddey?

Suggs is 25, has already earned All-Defensive recognition and averaged 13.8 points, 5.5 assists and 1.8 steals last season. His point-of-attack defense could take pressure off Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson and Nic Claxton, but a 33.9% three-point mark and his availability would need to be weighed against the major financial and acquisition cost.

Then we get into the BIG Matas conversation. 🌟

Shaq recently praised Buzelis’ work ethic and development and predicted:

“In about two more years, he will be a force to be reckoned with.”

But becoming a “force” can’t just mean scoring more.

Haize breaks down the four things Matas needs to prove:

🔥 Can he create advantages against set defenses?

🧠 Can he consistently make the next pass when help comes?

💪 Can he handle NBA physicality?

🔒 Can he impact games when his shot isn’t falling?

And Chicago has responsibilities too.

If the Bulls truly believe Matas can become that type of player, Tiago Splitter needs to give him meaningful creation reps, allow him to play through developmental mistakes and figure out whether Matas and Caleb Wilson can eventually create offense for one another instead of always depending on someone else to manufacture advantages.

PLUS…

🩺 Zach Collins missed the opening full practice with a quad soft-tissue issue.

The current information does not indicate a long absence, but it immediately puts Chicago’s frontcourt depth under the microscope.

Can Jalen Smith establish himself as a dependable backup? Are Orlando Robinson and Tobe Awaka viable emergency options? And against massive Eastern Conference frontcourts, can Chicago actually survive stretches without Claxton?

🔥 On today’s Chicago Bulls Central:

👀 Why Jalen Suggs belongs on Chicago’s watchlist
🔒 How Suggs could change Bulls perimeter defense
💰 Why a Suggs deal would require a major commitment
🌟 Shaq’s huge Matas Buzelis prediction
🧠 What Matas must prove beyond scoring
🐂 How Matas and Caleb’s development affects future roster moves
🩺 Zach Collins’ quad issue
🔥 Jalen Smith’s opportunity
💪 Can Chicago handle bigger Eastern Conference frontcourts?
🧢 FACTS OR CAP: Bulls have enough frontcourt depth

💬 Would you rather invest in an elite defensive guard like Jalen Suggs—or prioritize a higher-level shooter next to Josh Giddey?

And…

What would convince you THIS season that Matas is on the path Shaq described: scoring, playmaking or two-way consistency?

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Bill Wennington on Stacey King, New Role & Bulls’ Season Outlook

Chicago Sports Network — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson sit down with former Bull and 3-time NBA champion Bill Wennington to discuss his 24th season as the Bulls’ radio analyst and his new role as part of CHSN’s rotating TV analyst team. Plus, Bill reflects on the passing of Stacey King, his playing career and the path that led him to broadcasting, while looking ahead to the upcoming season, new head coach Tiago Splitter, the team’s new regime, and its young core.

PRESS CONFERENCE: Buddy Hield's Bulls Media Debut + Dailyn Swain on His Impact This Season

ALLCITY Network — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 22:37:19 GMT

Bulls Basketball is BACK! Hear from the newest Bull Buddy Hield and rookie Dailyn Swain on the first day of practice. Hield talks what he can bring to the young Bulls and Swain breaks down what he needs to do to prove himself to Tiago Splitter and the new coaching staff.

00:00 Buddy Hield

06:30 Dailyn Swain

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BULLS TRAINING CAMP: Buddy Hield, Dailyn Swain Speak After First Practice | CHGO Bulls Podcast

Will Perdue, Will Gottlieb, Big Dave, Matt Peck — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 22:33:09 GMT

PRESS CONFERENCE: Tiago Splitter Addresses Bulls Expectations + Caleb Wilson on His Role This Season

ALLCITY Network — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 22:23:38 GMT

Tiago Splitter addresses expectations for the Chicago Bulls ahead of the upcoming NBA season and what he wants to see from his team. Caleb Wilson also speaks with the media about his role, development and how he plans to make an impact for the Bulls this season. Hear directly from Splitter and Wilson as Chicago prepares for the start of the season. Get the latest Bulls news, player updates and season expectations from CHGO Bulls.

00:00 Tiago Splitter

11:00 Caleb Wilson

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Tiago Splitter Is Giving The Young Bulls MORE Freedom… Who Thrives & Who Gets Pushed Out?

Locked On Podcast Network — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 19:53:11 GMT

Tiago Splitter’s media day comments may have revealed one of the biggest changes coming to the Chicago Bulls: more freedom for the young players. 👀🐂
On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down what that could mean for a roster built around youth, development, and competition heading into the 2026-27 NBA season.
If Splitter truly plans to give players like Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Dailyn Swain, Noa Essengue, Rob Dillingham, Jaylin Sellers, and the rest of Chicago’s young core more room to play through mistakes, create offense, and grow on the floor, the Bulls could look very different from what fans have seen in recent seasons.
The guys discuss which young Bulls could benefit most from that freedom — and which players may actually take a major leap under Tiago’s system.
But more opportunity for the young guys means somebody else could lose minutes.
Haize and Pat also look at the veterans and players on expiring contracts who could fall out of the rotation or become trade candidates if Chicago decides to fully prioritize its future. Training camp and the first part of the season could quickly establish a hierarchy, and veterans who do not fit the new direction may become movable pieces.
That leads to the biggest question of the episode: who thrives under Tiago Splitter?
Could Matas Buzelis become the biggest beneficiary of more offensive freedom? Can Rob Dillingham turn creativity into real rotation minutes? Does Caleb Wilson immediately earn trust? Could Patrick Williams find new life in a different system? Or will a veteran surprise everyone by becoming indispensable?
Topics Include:
- Tiago Splitter’s media day comments
- Young Bulls expected to have more freedom
- How player development could change under Tiago
- Matas Buzelis’ opportunity to take another leap
- Caleb Wilson’s role as a rookie
- Rob Dillingham’s path to consistent minutes
- Dailyn Swain and Noa Essengue development
- Which Bulls veterans could lose rotation spots
- Expiring contracts that could become trade candidates
- Who fits best in Tiago Splitter’s system
- Bulls training camp rotation battles
- Chicago’s youth movement becoming real
The Bulls are entering a season where development and competition may finally go hand in hand. If Tiago Splitter truly empowers the young core, some players could take off — while others may find themselves squeezed out faster than expected.
🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down Tiago Splitter’s new approach, which young players could thrive, and which veterans may be fighting to stay in the rotation.
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Chicago Bulls Media Day 2026 Reaction: What’s the Plan for This Team?

Locked On Podcast Network — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 17:29:22 GMT

Chicago Bulls Media Day 2026 is here, and we’re breaking down what it tells us about the 2026–27 season. What is the plan for this team under new head coach Tiago Splitter and basketball operations leader Bryson Graham? We react to the biggest takeaways from Media Day, the expectations heading into training camp, and the questions Bulls fans still need answered.

How big a role will rookie Caleb Wilson play right away? What does the next step look like for Matas Buzelis? We’ll also discuss Josh Giddey, how Norman Powell and Nic Claxton fit with this roster, and what the Bulls’ starting lineup and identity could look like.

This is our full Chicago Bulls Media Day reaction and early look at the season ahead. Drop your biggest takeaway in the comments: What did you hear today that made you more excited—or more concerned—about the Bulls?

Subscribe for Chicago Bulls news, reactions, and discussion throughout the season.

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Caleb Wilson Bulls Media Day REACTION: Rookie Ready to Make an Impact!

Matt Peck, Big Dave Watson, Will Gottlieb — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Caleb Wilson made his Chicago Bulls Media Day debut as the rookie prepares for his first NBA season. Wilson discussed his mindset, work ethic, and what he hopes to bring to the Bulls alongside Matas Buzelis and the rest of the young roster. CHGO Bulls reacts to Wilson’s Media Day appearance and what his development could mean for Chicago this season.

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The Big Red Bus - Episode 281 - Goodbye Rob Hello Buddy

Bleav + The Big Red Bus: A Chicago Bulls Podcast — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 15:03:14 GMT

See Red Fred and the Podfather Doug Thonus record an episode discussing the departure of Rob Dillingham and the arrival of Buddy Hield. They also discuss the Jalen Bruson appearance on SNL.

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Bryson Graham Put Bulls Roster ON NOTICE 👀 +Bulls Have Shooting OR Defense…Can Splitter Actually Find BOTH?!

The B.R.E.A.K.S Media — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 11:33:49 GMT

Bryson Graham made one thing clear at Chicago Bulls Media Day: this roster is NOT guaranteed to stay together. So which veterans could be moved first—and will Chicago’s new development philosophy extend to Noa Essengue the same way it does to Caleb Wilson?

On today’s episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down three major questions surrounding the Bulls as training camp begins.

First, we look at Bryson Graham’s comments about Chicago’s veterans and future roster flexibility. Graham said nobody currently feels like he is “on the chopping block,” but acknowledged that the Bulls could change direction as the season provides more information. Chicago also still has its room exception and the February trade deadline as opportunities to continue reshaping the roster. Pasted text

That means players such as Norman Powell, Nic Claxton, Buddy Hield, Isaac Okoro, Jalen Smith, Tre Jones and Zach Collins may all be auditioning for more than minutes—they’re showing whether their value is greater helping Chicago’s young core or eventually being converted into future assets.

🔥 Norman Powell could potentially bring back Chicago’s strongest return because of his scoring, shooting and playoff experience.

👀 Buddy Hield may be the easiest deadline fit if his three-point shooting rebounds.

🧠 Nic Claxton presents the most important philosophical decision: is he Chicago’s long-term center or simply a bridge to the next one? Pasted text

Then we get into SLAP basketball—Bryson Graham’s preferred identity built around size, length, athleticism and physicality. Chicago clearly has those traits throughout its young forward group, but the backcourt is more complicated. The Bulls’ best defensive combinations may struggle offensively, while their best shooting lineups could become vulnerable at the point of attack. Pasted text

Haize breaks down how Tiago Splitter can balance those lineups, why Isaac Okoro or Dailyn Swain may need to accompany weaker defenders, how Josh Giddey can be used in cross-matches, and why Nic Claxton cannot be expected to erase every perimeter mistake.

And finally…

🌱 Does developmental grace apply to Noa Essengue too?

Chicago has made it clear that Caleb Wilson will be coached through normal rookie mistakes rather than immediately pulled after every turnover. But Noa is still only 19, essentially lost his rookie season to shoulder surgery and remains one of the rawest players on the roster. Pasted text

The real test for Chicago’s new regime is whether it can distinguish between developmental mistakes and standard-breaking mistakes—giving young players room to learn while still demanding effort, communication and professionalism. Pasted text

🔥 On today’s Chicago Bulls Central:

👀 Which Bulls veteran could be traded first?
💰 What would it take to move Norman Powell?
🎯 Could Buddy Hield become a deadline asset?
🧠 Is Nic Claxton part of the long-term core?
💪 Can Chicago really play “SLAP basketball”?
🔒 How Splitter can protect weaker perimeter defenders
🌱 Does Noa Essengue deserve developmental grace?
🏀 Why Windy City could be the best thing for Noa
🔥 Caleb Wilson vs. Noa Essengue developmental expectations
🐂 What this all tells us about Bryson Graham’s new Bulls philosophy

💬 Which Bulls veteran should be closest to untouchable—and who should Bryson Graham be willing to move immediately for the right return?

And…

Would you rather see Noa Essengue play 25–30 minutes with Windy City or inconsistent 8–10 minute stretches in the NBA?

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BULLS MEDIA DAY: Caleb Wilson, Graham, Splitter, & MORE Speak on Season Ahead! | CHGO Bulls Podcast

Matt Peck, Big Dave Watson, Will Gottlieb — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 23:27:21 GMT

The CHGO Bulls crew dive into all the sights and sounds of Chicago Bulls Media Day ahead of training camp for the 2026-27 NBA season. What were the biggest moments, quotes and signals from Bryson Graham and Tiago Splitter? How did Caleb Wilson handle the spotlight? Peck, Big Dave and Will Gottlieb break it all down. Plus, the guys react to the Bulls trading Rob Dillingham for Buddy Hield over the weekend.

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Chicago Bulls Rob Dillingham Trade, Front Office Changes, & Bulls Media Day

Bleav — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Kahlil McCuller goes over the Chicago Bulls recent front office changes and trade for Buddy Hield after moving on from Rob Dillingham. McCuller then goes on to discuss media day as the Bulls will be reporting tomorrow morning and giving their thoughts on the upcoming season before training camp.

Follow me on X @KahlilM17

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Bulls Media Day Is HERE — 5 Questions Chicago MUST Answer | Splitter’s “ORGANIZED CHAOS” Could Change EVERYTHING

The B.R.E.A.K.S Media — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 11:09:23 GMT

Chicago Bulls Media Day is here—and the time for hypotheticals is over.

On today’s episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down the FIVE biggest questions Bryson Graham, Tiago Splitter and the Bulls must answer before training camp officially begins.

First: Why did Chicago move on from Rob Dillingham before Splitter ever coached him? The Bulls traded the 21-year-old guard before camp, and that decision could tell us a lot about how Graham evaluates inherited players, developmental upside and roster fit.

Then we get into what may be the MOST important Media Day question:

What is the actual development plan for Dailyn Swain and Noa Essengue? 👀

Both are first-round picks—but their paths should look very different. Haize breaks down why Swain needs NBA role discipline mixed with G League creation reps, while Essengue may need more sustained developmental minutes after effectively losing his rookie season.

PLUS…

🔥 Who actually holds offensive developmental priority between Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson and Nic Claxton?

Should Matas get the most advanced creation reps? Should Caleb’s touches be more structured? How much offense should still run through Giddey and Powell?

And then we go X’s and O’s. 🧠

Tiago Splitter has previously described a fast decision-making philosophy built around shoot, drive or pass within roughly half a second—what he’s called “organized craziness.”

Haize breaks down what that could look like with:

⚡ Josh Giddey pushing after rebounds

🔥 Matas attacking moving defenses

💥 Caleb Wilson running, cutting and screening

🎯 Buddy Hield and Norman Powell creating movement

🧠 Nic Claxton flowing through screens and handoffs

But this system could also expose players who hesitate, overthink or struggle making quick reads.

And finally…

😳 Is the Caleb Wilson hype becoming dangerous?

A recent Bulls article invoked a “1984 vibe” around Caleb’s arrival—not to compare him directly to Michael Jordan, but to describe the franchise excitement surrounding a potentially foundational rookie.

Haize breaks down why the hype is understandable, why Caleb’s confidence is part of his appeal, and why Bulls fans still need to leave room for normal rookie mistakes.

🔥 On today’s Chicago Bulls Central:

👀 Five Bulls Media Day questions that NEED answers
🚨 Why Chicago moved on from Rob Dillingham
🌱 The development plans for Dailyn Swain & Noa Essengue
🏀 Who should receive offensive priority?
⚔️ Development vs immediate performance
📈 How Chicago should define progress
🧠 Tiago Splitter’s “organized craziness”
⚡ The Bulls’ potential 0.5 offense
😳 Is Caleb Wilson hype going too far?
🌟 Why Chicago shouldn’t make Caleb vs. Matas a competition

💬 Which Media Day answer matters most to YOU: Dillingham, Swain/Noa development, the offensive hierarchy or how Chicago defines progress?

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Did Bulls GIVE UP On Rob Dillingham Too Soon?! 👀 + How Buddy Hield Unlocks Matas & Caleb

The B.R.E.A.K.S Media — Sun, 27 Sep 2026 14:13:42 GMT

Did the Chicago Bulls give up on Rob Dillingham too soon—and could Buddy Hield’s shooting actually make life significantly easier for Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson?

On today’s episode of Chicago Bulls Central, Haize breaks down the Bulls’ reported decision to send 21-year-old Rob Dillingham to Charlotte for veteran sharpshooter Buddy Hield and cash considerations. Dillingham averaged 9.6 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 30 games with Chicago, but also shot 30% from three and carried significant questions about turnovers, defense and his pathway to minutes. Pasted text

The uncomfortable part? Dillingham is still only 21, and Chicago is supposedly rebuilding. Haize examines whether Bryson Graham sold too early on a former lottery pick before Tiago Splitter ever had the chance to coach him—or correctly identified that Chicago needed movement shooting and cleaner role definition more than another ball-dominant developmental guard. Pasted text

Then we get into the fun part. 🎯

Buddy Hield is a 39.5% career three-point shooter, and his value goes far beyond standing in the corner. Haize breaks down how Hield’s movement shooting could create easier driving lanes for Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis, improve Nic Claxton’s roll opportunities, and give Josh Giddey another proven relocation target. Pasted text

PLUS…

Chicago may have solved one issue while creating another.

Who creates offense when Josh Giddey sits?

Tre Jones can organize. Norman Powell can score. Matas needs real creation reps. Dailyn Swain can eventually connect possessions. But replacing Dillingham with Hield changes the bench’s offensive hierarchy in a major way. Pasted text

🔥 On today’s Chicago Bulls Central:

🚨 Did Chicago give up on Rob Dillingham too soon?
🎯 Why Buddy Hield is a cleaner roster fit
👀 The risk of betting on a 33-year-old coming off a down season
🌟 How Hield could unlock Caleb Wilson
🔥 How movement shooting helps Matas Buzelis
🧠 Buddy Hield + Nic Claxton handoff actions
⚔️ Who creates offense when Josh Giddey sits?
📈 Why Matas must get real second-unit creation reps
🐂 The Dailyn Swain opportunity
📞 Bulls Central listener voicemails

💬 Did Bryson Graham sell low on Rob Dillingham—or recognize a bad fit before wasting a season trying to force it?

And…

Who should become Chicago’s late-clock creator off the bench: Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis, Tre Jones or someone else?

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