The Chicago Bulls are getting one big man back just as another remains sidelined. 👀🐂
On today’s episode of Locked On Bulls, Haize and Pat The Designer react to Zach Collins being fully cleared for practice and potentially being available for the season opener. With Nic Claxton expected to miss another two weeks, Collins’ return could become much more important than anyone expected heading into the first week of the 2026-27 NBA season.
The guys break down what Collins can bring immediately, how Tiago Splitter should manage the center rotation, and whether Collins or Jalen Smith should get the first crack at replacing Claxton in the starting lineup.
Chicago built much of its defensive identity around Claxton’s rim protection, switching ability, and versatility. Without him, the Bulls may have to adjust how aggressively they defend the perimeter and how much responsibility they put on Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson, Isaac Okoro, and the rest of the young core.
Haize and Pat also discuss the bigger concern: how much should Bulls fans worry about Claxton being out another two weeks?
Hamstring injuries can be tricky, and the Bulls cannot afford to rush one of their most important offseason additions back before he is ready. But every game Claxton misses is also another game Chicago has to build chemistry without its expected defensive anchor.
Plus, the guys ask one of the most important questions heading into opening week:
Who has the biggest first week for the Bulls?
Is it Josh Giddey, who has to control the offense and set the tone? Is it Matas Buzelis, who needs to show his Year 3 leap is real? Is it rookie Caleb Wilson, who faces immediate expectations? Or is it Zach Collins, whose sudden importance may force him into a major role right away?
The Bulls finally get to move from preseason questions to real answers. Claxton’s absence creates an early test, Collins’ return could stabilize the frontcourt, and the first week will give fans their first real look at which players are ready to carry bigger responsibilities.
🎙️ Tune in to Locked On Bulls as Haize and Pat break down Zach Collins’ return, Nic Claxton’s extended absence, and which Bulls player has the most important first week of the season.
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