The Bulls open the 2026-27 season in Toronto, where rookie Caleb Wilson makes his NBA debut and new coach Tiago Splitter begins his first regular season. Chicago’s young core faces an immediate challenge from Kawhi Leonard, Scottie Barnes and a playoff-tested Raptors team—while the Bulls are without injured center Nic Claxton.

By the Numbers
  • Chicago finished 31-51 last season.
  • Toronto won 46 games and reached the playoffs last season.
  • Leonard averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists last season.
Yes, But

Chicago’s opener offers a meaningful early test, but Claxton’s absence leaves the Bulls’ paint protection in question. Zach Collins, listed as probable, could provide another frontcourt option.

State of Play
  • Wilson makes his NBA debut alongside young standouts Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey.
  • Toronto’s Leonard and Barnes will test Chicago’s young forwards on both ends.
  • The Bulls will need Giddey to organize the offense and veteran scoring to steady possessions.
What’s Next

The opener will offer an early read on Splitter’s defensive approach, the Bulls’ rotation and how quickly Wilson and Buzelis can contribute against experienced competition.

Bottom Line

Chicago’s new direction faces an immediate reality check: its young core must handle Toronto’s star power while finding answers in the paint without Claxton.