Suns Look to Spoil Splitter's Debut as Bulls Open Preseason

Chicago's new-look preseason opener against Phoenix is more about evaluation than results, but the Suns have the steadier footing.

PHX @ CHI Oct 8, 2026 at 12:00 AM UTC

The Bulls open their preseason Wednesday, Oct. 7, at the United Center against the Phoenix Suns, and the evening is mostly about first impressions. Tiago Splitter makes his debut as Chicago's head coach, and the roster is still learning his system. With a new basketball operations leader also in place, this is the first public look at how the organization wants to play after a 31-51 season, a weak defense and a fourth straight missed playoffs.

That context favors Phoenix. Early preseason games tend to be ragged, and a team installing new concepts usually shows it on the defensive end first. Chicago's defense was a problem last season, and a first game under a new staff is unlikely to fix it. If the Bulls are late on rotations or loose in transition, the Suns should be able to find clean looks.

The Bulls' fringe moves are worth watching but are unlikely to decide the game. Jordan Hawkins just filled the final two-way slot, and his NBA production has been modest, so his minutes are a chance to see whether the shooting translates. Former Suns forward Jalen Bridges is expected to go to the G League, so he shouldn't be a factor.

Phoenix has its own evaluation to run. Ryan Dunn had his fourth-year option exercised and will compete for a bench role, and a crowded reserve group means he has a real chance to make an impression in this game.

Expect a choppy, rotation-heavy night. Chicago should show some effort and flashes of its new identity, but Phoenix's cleaner execution gives it the edge late.

Prediction: Suns 112, Bulls 106.

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