Bulls rookie Caleb Wilson sets worst plus-minus in NBA debut history
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The gist
Bulls forward Caleb Wilson posted 16 points and nine turnovers in a 135-92 loss at Toronto.
The No. 4 pick's -45 plus-minus was the worst ever for an NBA debut.
Background
Caleb Wilson is a Chicago Bulls forward (#8) and the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft out of North Carolina. He impressed in the Summer League and carried that into the preseason before his first regular-season game, which came as the Bulls opened their 2026-27 season in Toronto against the Raptors. His debut drew scrutiny because of how lopsided the loss was and how many turnovers he committed.
How it unfolded
- Oct 7, 2026Wilson plays against the Phoenix Suns at United Center during the preseason.
- Oct 14, 2026Wilson dunks against the Milwaukee Bucks in the second quarter at Fiserv Forum.
- Oct 17, 2026Yahoo Sports/Roundtable Sports grades Wilson's first preseason a B- relative to draft expectations.
- Oct 21, 2026In his NBA debut, Wilson posts 16 points (7-of-21 FGs), four rebounds, three steals, one block and nine turnovers in the Bulls' 135-92 loss to the Raptors; his -45 plus-minus is the worst ever for an NBA debut, surpassing Jalen Green's 2020-21 rookie debut.
- Oct 22, 2026Basketnews reports Wilson set the worst career debut game in NBA history after the 43-point loss.
Who’s saying what
- Analysts
- NBC Sports' Raphielle Johnson said efficiency can be an issue for rookies and was certainly the case for Wilson in his debut, adding that his high usage may hurt his fantasy value.
- Analysts
- Yahoo Sports/Roundtable Sports said many of Wilson's issues are correctable and it is up to coach Tiago Splitter and the Bulls staff to help him develop.