Chicago Bulls Media Day 2026 Reaction: What’s the Plan for This Team?

Nic Claxton believes his move to the Chicago Bulls can help turn his career around, and Tiago Splitter may already have a very different vision for how to use him. 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down Claxton’s confidence entering the 2026-27 NBA season and why his role could become one of the biggest stories of Tiago Splitter’s first year in Chicago.Claxton is expected to anchor the Bulls defense, but Splitter apparently wants more than traditional rim protection. The Bulls want to take advantage of Claxton’s mobility by allowing him to switch onto guards and defend farther away from the basket, potentially giving Chicago one of the more versatile defensive frontcourts in the Eastern Conference.Haize and Pat discuss whether that approach can help Claxton rediscover the form that once made him one of the NBA’s more intriguing defensive centers. How aggressive should Chicago be with switching? Can Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson help cover the paint when Claxton gets pulled outside? And could Claxton become the key that allows Splitter to build the aggressive defensive identity he has been preaching throughout training camp?The guys also discuss the changing conversation around Noa Essengue.Splitter was demanding more force, aggression and consistency from Essengue during Summer League, but the tone surrounding the young forward has reportedly become much more positive during training camp. Is Noa beginning to show the growth Chicago hoped to see? Could he earn NBA minutes sooner than expected, or should the Bulls still prioritize G League development?Plus, the Jalen Smith trade rumors are back, with the Los Angeles Lakers connected to the Bulls big man.Would Chicago actually benefit from moving Smith? His shooting gives the Bulls something unique in the frontcourt, especially when playing next to non-shooters. But with Claxton, Zach Collins, Caleb Wilson, and other options competing for minutes, Smith could also become one of Chicago’s more realistic trade chips.Topics Include:- Nic Claxton confident he can revive his career with the Bulls- How Tiago Splitter plans to use Claxton defensively- Claxton potentially switching onto guards- Bulls’ aggressive defensive philosophy- How Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson fit around Claxton- Tiago Splitter changing his tone on Noa Essengue- Noa’s strong training camp- Could Essengue earn NBA rotation minutes?- Jalen Smith to Lakers trade rumors- Should Chicago trade Jalen Smith?- Bulls frontcourt rotation entering preseason- Bryson Graham’s next roster decisionTraining camp is already changing some of the assumptions Bulls fans carried into the season. Claxton may have a much larger defensive role than expected, Essengue may be further along than Summer League suggested, and Jalen Smith could suddenly become a player to watch on the trade market.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down Nic Claxton’s comeback expectations, Tiago Splitter’s surprising defensive plan, Noa Essengue’s training-camp progress, and the latest Jalen Smith-Lakers trade conversation.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Aura CybersecurityStart your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.  Protect yourself now.GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Aura CybersecurityStart your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.  Protect yourself now.GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 storylinesTraining 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.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Aura CybersecurityStart your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.  Protect yourself now.GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 realThe 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.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Aura CybersecurityStart your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.  Protect yourself now.GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.#ChicagoBulls #Bulls #nbaSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Aura CybersecurityStart your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.  Protect yourself now.GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago Bulls finally addressed one of the biggest concerns on the roster by adding veteran sharpshooter Buddy Hield in a trade. 🔥🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down what the Buddy Hield move means for Chicago heading into the 2026-27 NBA season.The Bulls have spent the offseason surrounded by questions about three-point shooting, half-court spacing, and bench scoring, and Hield directly attacks all three concerns. His ability to stretch defenses, move without the ball, and punish teams from deep could dramatically change how Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Nic Claxton, Norman Powell, and the rest of Tiago Splitter’s rotation operate offensively.Haize and Pat discuss where Hield fits in the rotation and whether he should come off the bench as Chicago’s primary shooting weapon or potentially close games when the Bulls desperately need spacing.The guys also break down the trade mechanics provided in the deal. Charlotte creates a $9.4 million trade exception and takes in roughly $3 million less in salary, while Chicago receives cash to help offset a significant portion of the salary difference. From the Bulls’ perspective, the bigger story is simple: Bryson Graham found a way to add an established NBA shooter without abandoning the larger roster-building plan.The move also creates immediate rotation questions. What does Hield’s arrival mean for Rob Dillingham, Tre Jones, Isaac Okoro, Patrick Williams, Jaylin Sellers, and Chicago’s other bench options? And could adding a legitimate movement shooter make Tiago Splitter’s half-court offense significantly easier to build?Topics Include:- Bulls trade for Buddy Hield- Why Chicago desperately needed more three-point shooting- How Hield fits next to Josh Giddey- Buddy Hield’s role in Tiago Splitter’s offense- Bulls bench scoring after the trade- Who could lose rotation minutes?- How the trade impacts Rob Dillingham and other guards- Charlotte creating a $9.4 million trade exception- Chicago receiving cash in the transaction- Did Bryson Graham finally solve the Bulls’ biggest weakness?- How much the move changes Bulls expectations for 2026-27The Bulls did not need another developmental shooter — they needed someone defenses already respect. Buddy Hield provides exactly that, and now Chicago’s spacing conversation looks completely different heading into the season.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down the Buddy Hield trade, howSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.Cozy EarthHead to https://cozyearth.com and use my code LOCKEDON for an exclusive 20%.WayfairPatio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago Bulls are entering a new era in the broadcast booth, and that gives Haize and Pat The Designer plenty to talk about on today’s episode of Locked On Bulls. 👀🐂First, the guys react to the Bulls announcing their new broadcast team and discuss what the change could mean for the viewing experience moving forward. Chicago fans have had strong connections to the voices calling Bulls games over the years, so any shift in the booth is going to create opinions. What should fans want from the new crew: more analysis, more energy, more personality, or simply chemistry that feels authentic?Then Haize and Pat go historical with a fun debate: who are the top 10 point guards in Chicago Bulls history? From Derrick Rose to Kirk Hinrich, Ron Harper, B.J. Armstrong, and other notable names, the guys compare impact, production, playoff moments, longevity, leadership, and what each player meant to the franchise.And yes — the list is absolutely going to create arguments.Plus, the guys react to Lonzo Ball pump-faking retirement and briefly sending NBA and Bulls fans into panic mode. Lonzo’s Chicago tenure remains one of the biggest “what if” stories in recent Bulls history, and his latest moment gives the guys a chance to revisit his complicated relationship with Bulls fans and how differently things might have gone if injuries had not changed the trajectory.Topics Include:Bulls announce a new broadcast teamReaction to the new voices covering Chicago basketballWhat makes a great Bulls broadcast team?Ranking the top 10 point guards in Bulls historyDerrick Rose’s place in franchise historyKirk Hinrich, Ron Harper, B.J. Armstrong and moreMost underrated Bulls point guardsLonzo Ball’s retirement pump-fakeLonzo’s Bulls legacy and the ultimate “what if?”Bulls history debates ahead of the 2026-27 season🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat react to Chicago’s new broadcast team, debate the top 10 point guards in Bulls history, and talk about Lonzo Ball briefly making everyone think retirement was coming.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.Cozy EarthHead to https://cozyearth.com and use my code LOCKEDON for an exclusive 20%.WayfairPatio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago Bulls are getting more national recognition, with four players landing in ESPN’s Top 100 — but does that mean this roster is better than people are giving it credit for? 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer react to four Chicago Bulls players making ESPN’s Top 100 rankings and what that says about the overall talent level of the roster heading into the 2026-27 NBA season.With names like Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Norman Powell, Nic Claxton, Caleb Wilson, and others shaping Chicago’s new era, the guys discuss whether the Bulls are starting to get more respect nationally — or if the rankings still undersell what this team could become under Tiago Splitter.Haize and Pat also look ahead to next summer and discuss Brandin Podziemski as a potential Bulls restricted free agent target. Would his shooting, rebounding, competitiveness, secondary playmaking, and guard versatility fit what Chicago is building? And if the Bulls still need more backcourt creation and perimeter shooting next offseason, could Podziemski become one of Bryson Graham’s most interesting targets?Plus, the guys react to the Bulls landing Drew Peterson in a trade and break down what the move could mean for Chicago’s depth. Is Peterson simply another developmental piece, or could his size, shooting, and versatility give him a real chance to compete for a role?Topics Include:Four Bulls landing in ESPN’s Top 100Is Chicago’s roster being underrated?Which Bulls players deserve more national respect?Brandin Podziemski as a 2027 RFA optionHow Podziemski could fit Chicago’s rosterBulls’ long-term need for shooting and guard creationBulls trade for Drew PetersonWhat Peterson could bring to ChicagoBryson Graham continuing to reshape the rosterBulls 2026-27 roster and future outlookThe Bulls are still building, but national recognition, future free-agent possibilities, and another depth move show that Chicago’s roster conversation is continuing to evolve. The biggest question now is whether all of these pieces can translate into more wins once the season begins.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down ESPN’s Top 100 rankings, Brandin Podziemski as a future RFA target, and the Bulls’ trade for Drew Peterson.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.Cozy EarthHead to https://cozyearth.com and use my code LOCKEDON for an exclusive 20%.WayfairPatio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago Bulls’ starting lineup may look fairly clear, but who actually finishes games when the score gets tight? 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer predict Tiago Splitter’s closing rotation for the 2026-27 NBA season. The projected starters — Josh Giddey, Norman Powell, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, and Nic Claxton — give Chicago size, athleticism, scoring and defense, but the best five players to start a game may not always be the best five to finish one.The guys break down different late-game situations. Does Nic Claxton stay on the floor when Chicago desperately needs shooting? Could Jalen Smith close because of his ability to stretch the floor? Does Isaac Okoro enter when the Bulls need one stop? Could Rob Dillingham become the offensive wildcard when the half-court offense stalls? And will rookie Caleb Wilson earn immediate closing minutes?Haize and Pat also discuss whether the Bulls should be closely monitoring the Jalen Duren situation with the Detroit Pistons. Duren's combination of youth, athleticism, rebounding and interior scoring makes him an intriguing player to watch if his long-term future in Detroit ever becomes uncertain. The question for Chicago is whether a player like Duren would be worth pursuing given the Bulls' existing investment in Claxton and their developing frontcourt.Plus, the guys reveal their Bulls All Short-Leash Team, featuring Rob Dillingham, Patrick Williams and Noa Essengue. All three have talent, but each enters the season with something major to prove.Can Dillingham show enough defensively to earn consistent minutes? Can Patrick Williams finally deliver the aggression and consistency Bulls fans have waited years to see? And can Essengue prove he's ready for NBA minutes instead of spending most of the year developing in the G League?Topics Include:Predicting the Bulls' 2026-27 closing fiveWho Tiago Splitter should trust late in gamesOffensive vs. defensive closing lineupsCaleb Wilson's chances of closing games as a rookieRob Dillingham's potential late-game roleShould the Bulls monitor Jalen Duren?How Duren would fit Chicago's young coreBulls All Short-Leash TeamPatrick Williams' pressure entering the seasonNoa Essengue's development timelineBulls training camp rotation battlesThe Bulls suddenly have enough depth that Tiago Splitter will have real choices to make. That's a good problem — but it also means players who struggle early may quickly find themselves outside the rotation.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat predict Chicago's closing lineup, discuss why Jalen Duren should remain on the Bulls' radar, and reveal which players enter the season on the shortest leash.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.Cozy EarthHead to https://cozyearth.com and use my code LOCKEDON for an exclusive 20%.WayfairPatio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago Bulls are getting closer to real basketball, and three major storylines could shape the 2026-27 season: the Josh Giddey–Nic Claxton partnership, Matas Buzelis’ future contract, and preseason finally being just a little over two weeks away. 👀🐂On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer break down just how important the Josh Giddey and Nic Claxton duo could be for Chicago this season. Giddey’s passing, rebounding, pace, and ability to create advantages could pair perfectly with Claxton’s rim running, screening, athleticism, lob threat, and defensive impact.The question is whether that chemistry can become one of the foundations of Tiago Splitter’s offense.Can Giddey consistently create easy looks for Claxton in pick-and-roll situations? Can Claxton help Giddey by giving him a reliable vertical target? And can their connection help Chicago create easier offense when the half-court spacing gets tight?Haize and Pat also dive into Matas Buzelis’ eventual contract extension and what his next deal could look like if his development continues. With Matas entering a critical season for his long-term trajectory, the guys discuss what kind of production, efficiency, defensive growth, and overall impact could determine how much Chicago may ultimately have to invest in him.Plus, Bulls preseason basketball is now a little over two weeks away, which means fans are finally getting close to seeing this new-look roster on the floor. What should Bulls fans be watching first? How will Tiago Splitter handle the rotation? Who wins the final bench spots? How do Giddey, Claxton, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Norman Powell, and the rest of the roster fit together in actual game action?Topics Include:How important the Josh Giddey and Nic Claxton duo will beGiddey–Claxton pick-and-roll chemistryCan Claxton help unlock Chicago’s half-court offense?Predicting Matas Buzelis’ future Bulls extensionWhat Matas needs to prove before his next contractHow high Buzelis’ value could climbBulls preseason just over two weeks awayBiggest preseason questions for Tiago SplitterRotation battles to watchBulls 2026-27 season expectationsThe Bulls have plenty of young talent, but chemistry will determine how quickly it all comes together. If Giddey and Claxton become a real two-man weapon and Matas takes another major step, Chicago’s long-term picture starts looking a lot more interesting.🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down the importance of Josh Giddey and Nic Claxton, predict Matas Buzelis’ next contract, and look ahead to Bulls preseason basketball.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.Cozy EarthHead to https://cozyearth.com and use my code LOCKEDON for an exclusive 20%.WayfairPatio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.SquareGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/NBA ! #squarepodFanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.