The Chicago Bulls began the 2026 NBA preseason on Wednesday against the Phoenix Suns. Center Nic Claxton is already confirmed out with a hamstring injury for 2 weeks. Backup center Zach Collins also remains out with a soft tissue injury.
Before the game, the new head coach Tiago Splitter officially added Tre Jones and Jaylin Sellers to the list. Jones is out with hip soreness, and Sellers is out with lower back soreness.
Jones is set to begin his second full season with the Bulls. In July 2025, Jones signed a 3-year, $24 million contract through the 2026-27 season. Last year, he averaged 14.1 points and 5.4 assists per game while shooting 55.3% from the field. Meanwhile, Sellers is on a two-way contract with the Windy City Bulls of the NBA G League. He went undrafted after playing for Ball State, UCF, and Providence in college.
In the NBA Summer League, Sellers averaged 15.6 points per game and scored 24 points against the Washington Wizards.
Additionally, Splitter said Claxton will be reevaluated before the regular season starts on Oct. 21. He also said Collins is close to returning. Last year, Collins sustained a season-ending toe injury.
Article Continues BelowThe Bulls' starting lineup against the Suns will be Caleb Wilson, Matas Buzelis, Norman Powell, Josh Giddey, and Jalen Smith. Wednesday night marks the start of a complete rebuild—a season with new faces, a new coach, and new management at the top.
The Bulls will play their second preseason game on Friday against the Memphis Grizzlies at the United Center at 7:00 pm CST/8:00 pm EST.