Matas Buzelis optimistic after right ankle injury ends his preseason game

Matas Buzelis was ruled out for the rest of Chicago’s preseason game against Memphis with a right ankle injury, according to K.C. Johnson’s report citing Bulls public relations. The forward sounded more optimistic when discussing the injury afterward.

In a postgame video shared by Joel Lorenzi, Buzelis said the ankle problem was not bad and that he expected to travel with Chicago for Sunday’s game in Denver. His comments provide his own assessment, not medical clearance to play.

What is confirmed, and what is not

The confirmed in-game update was that Buzelis would not return. His expectation of making the trip is a separate development. Traveling with the team does not by itself settle his availability for the next game, and the reports reviewed do not give a formal return timetable.

Hoops Rumors’ overnight roundup reported that the injury followed a block against Memphis. It also relayed Buzelis’ view that the ankle was sore but that he believed he could be ready Sunday. That outlook is encouraging, but it remains the player’s prediction.

For readers tracking the Bulls’ preseason availability, the next useful update will be an official status announcement before the Denver game. There is no basis in these reports to assign a longer absence or to declare Buzelis fully cleared. This update is separate from Chicago’s previously reported center-rotation and frontcourt injury story.

Matas Buzelis says his ankle injury is not bad at all, and that he expects to travel for Sunday in Denver. pic.twitter.com/gC80PxTRa0

— Joel Lorenzi (@JoelXLorenzi) October 10, 2026

Checked October 10, 2026. Sources: K.C. Johnson, Joel Lorenzi and Hoops Rumors.