“He has not arrived. He just hasn’t. And that’s just the truth. And I love Matas and think he’s got an unbelievable runway to be an outstanding player in this league if he keeps his drive and his motivation and doesn’t think he’s arrived."
Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan uttered those words about up-and-coming sophomore Matas Buzelis ahead of the Bulls’ regular-season opener. Donovan didn’t mean them as a slight to Buzelis’ talent—he’s well aware of the 21-year-old’s All-Star ceiling. Rather, the coach is intent on keeping his young forward “grounded and driven.”
Thus far, Donovan's approach has paid off.