Leonard Miller Strengthens Bulls Frontcourt With Preseason Surge

Chicago Bulls forward Leonard Miller has emerged as a productive option during the team's 2026 preseason, combining efficient scoring with rebounding and defensive activity. The 22-year-old has contributed off the bench in wins and losses, giving head coach Tiago Splitter another frontcourt option as Chicago evaluates its rotation and prepares for the regular season.

According to preseason statistics reported by CBS Sports and RotoWire, Miller scored 14 points in 14 minutes against the Phoenix Suns on Oct. 7, then recorded 12 points and 11 rebounds against the Memphis Grizzlies on Oct. 9. His performances have highlighted his ability to contribute in limited minutes, although his regular-season playing time remains uncertain.

Against Phoenix, Miller made five of seven field-goal attempts, including one of two from 3-point range, and converted all three free throws. He also recorded two assists and two steals without committing a turnover in Chicago's 124-117 preseason victory, according to CBS Sports.

His performance against Memphis demonstrated a different strength. Miller finished with 12 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and one steal in 23 minutes as the Bulls lost 104-100 on Oct. 9, according to RotoWire.

Eight of his rebounds and eight of his points came in the first half. Seven of his 11 rebounds were offensive boards, giving Chicago additional opportunities near the basket despite the team's defeat.

Miller's rebounding production could prove useful alongside Matas Buzelis and Caleb Wilson, two forwards whose games lean more toward perimeter play. According to Pippen Ain't Easy, Miller offers a more interior-oriented style, using his size, athleticism and energy to attack the rim, run in transition and pursue second-chance opportunities.

Listed at 6-foot-10 and 220 pounds, the Canadian-born forward provides additional size for a roster that features several wing-oriented players. He is not a traditional center, but his physical profile and activity around the basket could help Chicago address its frontcourt needs.

Miller has also shown progress as a perimeter shooter. Pippen Ain't Easy reported that he shot 35.6 percent from 3-point range last season and made at least one three-pointer in each of his first two preseason appearances.

Chicago's frontcourt depth has been affected by injuries to Jalen Smith, Nicolas Claxton and Zach Collins, while Buzelis also left the Memphis game early. Undrafted free agent Tobe Awaka started at center against the Grizzlies, creating an opportunity for Miller to take on a larger role.

Despite his strong preseason, Miller still faces competition for regular-season minutes. RotoWire identified Patrick Williams, rookie Dailyn Swain, Smith and Collins among the players ahead of him in the expected rotation, leaving his longer-term role dependent on roster availability and coaching decisions.