The Chicago Bulls are reportedly exploring trade options for forward Patrick Williams ahead of the February 6th deadline. Despite signing a lucrative $90 million contract extension in the summer of 2024, Williams has failed to meet the expectations of the team’s management, leading to doubts about his future with the franchise.
In 32 games this season, Williams has averaged 9.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and a 37.7% field goal percentage in 26 minutes per game. These numbers mark a noticeable decline compared to his performance over the past two seasons. Once hailed as a promising prospect, Williams has fallen out of favor with the Bulls’ coaching staff and is now losing playing time to rookie Matas Buzelis. The challenge for Chicago lies in finding a trade partner for a 23-year-old player who, despite his potential as a perimeter shooter and defender, is tied to a long-term contract that runs through 2029. His struggles have been notably evident in January, where his averages dipped to just 6.6 points per game over the last nine outings.
Head coach Billy Donovan has expressed concerns about Williams’ lack of impact on the court, especially during the team’s recent four-game losing streak. Donovan has emphasized the need for greater effort, particularly in rebounding and overall activity, from the young forward.
Williams isn’t the only Bulls player perhaps on the move. The team is also evaluating the futures of Lonzo Ball, whose contract is expiring, as well as star players zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic, all of whom could be part of a broader roster shake-up.
is Patrick Williams Still a Fit for the Chicago Bulls? An Interview with Former Bulls Assistant Coach Josh Longstaff
the Chicago Bulls’ offseason has been marked by rumors, speculation, and a looming decision about Patrick Williams’ future. As a restricted free agent,Williams’ next steps could shape the Bulls’ trajectory for years to come.To gain some insight, I sat down with former Bulls assistant coach Josh Longstaff, who worked closely with Williams during his rookie season. Here’s what Longstaff had to say about Williams’ development, fit with the Bulls, and potential future.
Q: You coached Patrick Williams during his rookie year. How did you see his potential back then, and how do you view his development since?
Josh longstaff: When Pat frist came in, it was clear he had all the tools—size, athleticism, and a high basketball IQ. What stood out to me was his willingness to learn and his humility. He wasn’t afraid to ask questions or put in the extra work. As then, I think he’s made strides, especially on the defensive end. He’s versatile, can guard multiple positions, and has shown flashes of being a lockdown defender. Offensively, he’s still finding his rhythm, but I believe the potential is there for him to be a consistent two-way player.
Q: There’s been some debate about whether Williams has lived up to expectations as the fourth overall pick. Do you think the expectations were fair, and has he met them?
Josh Longstaff: The expectations for a top-five pick are always sky-high, and sometimes that can overshadow the realities of player development. Pat was raw coming into the league, and while he hasn’t become an All-Star yet, he’s shown steady improvement. The key is patience. Not every player is an overnight success, and Pat’s trajectory is more of a slow burn. He’s still just 22 years old, and his best basketball is ahead of him.
Q: The Bulls have to decide whether to re-sign Williams this offseason. Do you think he’s still a good fit for the team?
Josh Longstaff: I think Pat fits well with the Bulls’ core. His versatility on defense is invaluable, especially in a lineup with players like [Zach] LaVine and [DeMar] derozan, who are more offensively focused. Pat’s ability to guard the best player on the opposing team allows those guys to conserve energy for scoring. Offensively, if he can develop a more consistent three-point shot and become more aggressive, he’ll be a perfect complementary piece. The key for the Bulls is deciding if they’re willing to invest in his development and give him the minutes to grow.
Q: What do you think is the next step in Williams’ evolution as a player?
Josh Longstaff: For Pat, it’s about confidence and consistency. He has all the physical tools,but he needs to trust himself more on the court.Specifically, he needs to take more shots, attack the rim, and become a more assertive scorer. Defensively, he’s already elite, but he can take it to another level by being a vocal leader on that end of the floor. if he can blend his defensive skills with a more offensive mindset, he’ll be a force in the league.
Q: A scenario where Pat signs with another team. Do you see a team where be a better fit?
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