Bulls' Buzelis, Wizards' Giddey Ruled Out for Matchup

Both young stars will miss Tuesday's game due to injuries and illness

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:37pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movement and energy of a basketball game, with the players' figures broken down into abstract shapes and forms.Injuries sideline rising stars Buzelis and Giddey as their teams battle in a high-stakes NBA matchup.Chicago Today

The Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards will face off on Tuesday night, but they will be without two of their rising young stars. Bulls forward Matas Buzelis has been ruled out due to an illness, while Wizards guard Josh Giddey will miss the game with a left hamstring strain.

Why it matters

Buzelis and Giddey are both highly touted prospects who have shown flashes of brilliance this season. Their absences will be felt by their respective teams as they look to end the season on a high note.

The details

Buzelis, the Bulls' first-round pick in 2023, has been a consistent contributor this season, averaging 16.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. Giddey, the Wizards' lottery pick in 2022, has also impressed, putting up 17.0 points, 9.1 assists, and 8.3 rebounds per game. Both players have dealt with injuries throughout the year, with Giddey missing 11 games earlier this season due to a left hamstring strain.

  • Buzelis and Giddey both played on April 3 against the New York Knicks.
  • Buzelis missed the March 5 game against the Phoenix Suns due to an ankle injury.
  • Giddey missed the April 1 game against the Indiana Pacers.

The players

Matas Buzelis

A 21-year-old forward for the Chicago Bulls, who was the team's first-round pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. He has been a consistent contributor this season, averaging 16.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.

Josh Giddey

A 20-year-old guard for the Washington Wizards, who was the team's lottery pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. He has impressed this season, putting up 17.0 points, 9.1 assists, and 8.3 rebounds per game.

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The takeaway

The absences of Buzelis and Giddey will be a significant blow to their respective teams as they look to end the season on a positive note. Both players have shown immense potential and will be key pieces for their franchises going forward.