Bulls’ show of faith in Noa Essengue is bound to pay off eventually

The Chicago Bulls need to see what they truly have in their young pieces this season—and that includes Noa Essengue.

By G.C. Bellchamber · Pippen Ain't Easy

Published: Saturday, 31 October 2026 at 3:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Writer G.C. Bellchamber argues the Bulls' decision to give early minutes to Noa Essengue will pay off long term.
Bulls head coach Tiago Splitter used Essengue as the first player off the bench in consecutive games.
Essengue missed nearly all of the previous season because of a shoulder injury.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer G.C. Bellchamber argues that the Chicago Bulls' early show of faith in forward Noa Essengue will yield positive long-term results despite initial struggles. Bulls head coach Tiago Splitter has deployed Essengue as the first substitute off the bench in consecutive games against the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics to test his development.

Essengue missed nearly his entire rookie season due to a shoulder injury and has recorded eight points across 53 total minutes this season. Bellchamber contends that challenging Essengue against opposing starting lineups will help the front office and Splitter properly evaluate his long-term potential as a connective wing.

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Bulls’ show of faith in Noa Essengue is bound to pay off eventually

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