The Chicago Bulls are at a critical juncture, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that Patrick Williams’ future with the team is uncertain. After a disappointing lack of progress since his rookie season, it’s time for the Bulls to move on from the 22-year-old forward. Though it’s typical for teams to give their rookie players two to three seasons to develop, the writing is on the wall: Williams is not the future for this team.
When Williams entered the league in 2020, he was hailed as a potential two-way player with significant upside. The 6’7” forward was known for his athleticism and defense, and his potential as a versatile scorer was seen as a key asset for the Bulls’ rebuilding project. However, three seasons later, it’s hard to point to any significant development in his game. While he’s certainly a capable defender, his offensive game has stagnated, and his ability to make an impact as a primary or even secondary scorer has been underwhelming.
In today’s NBA, teams need players who can evolve and contribute in a variety of ways. While Williams has had flashes of potential, his lack of consistent development makes it clear that he won’t be the cornerstone piece the Bulls were hoping for. In fact, when you look around the league at other players drafted in the same class, it’s evident that many of them have made significant strides in their game while Williams remains stuck in neutral.
The NBA is a results-driven league, and after three years, the Bulls can no longer afford to wait for Williams to turn the corner. If a reasonable trade offer comes their way, the front office should not hesitate to pull the trigger. Moving Williams for a shorter contract or a player with more immediate upside is the logical decision at this point. There’s no benefit to holding on to him and hoping for a future that seems increasingly unlikely to materialize.
It’s a harsh reality, but the Bulls’ aspirations are much higher than relying on a player who hasn’t been able to take the next step in his development. With the team already facing a difficult road to contention, it’s crucial to make decisions that will help the team in the short term, and unfortunately, Patrick Williams no longer fits that vision. The time for change has arrived—it’s clear that after next season, he will not be in a Bulls uniform.
