Fresh from their triumph against the Detroit Pistons with a score of 119-108, the Chicago Bulls aimed to silence doubts about their lineup by defeating the Milwaukee Bucks in the second game of their back-to-back series. Regrettably, luck wasn’t on their side as they fell short, losing 109-118, mainly due to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s effortless 35-point, 11-rebound performance. Despite the defeat, there was a notable positive aspect to take back home to Chicago – Patrick Williams stepped up admirably, making significant contributions to keep the game competitive.
Although he remained in a bench role, Williams delivered his best performance of the season thus far. He scored 13 points, shooting 4-for-7 from the field and 3-for-4 from beyond the arc, in addition to grabbing 3 rebounds, making 3 blocks, 2 steals, and providing 2 assists, all without committing a turnover. It was a remarkably well-rounded performance that could have given Chicago a genuine chance to win against a weaker opponent.
While Williams may not have developed into the offensive force many fans had hoped for, his defensive responsibilities, alongside teammate Alex Caruso, might be crucial in keeping the team afloat. They seem to be shouldering a significant defensive burden that could be pivotal for the team’s success.
Incredible defensive stretch from Patrick.
Wraps up Giannis on a drive and forces a jump ball. Then gets switched onto Dame and blocks his jumper pic.twitter.com/bBsUuiWqo2
— Will Gottlieb (@Will_Gottlieb) November 14, 2023
Patrick Williams looked the best he has all season in the Bulls’ loss to the Bucks last night.
Unfortunately for Bulls beat reporter and The Athletic’s Darnell Mayberry, Williams’ outstanding performance couldn’t have come at a worse moment. That’s because he took to X (previously Twitter) to share an article he wrote ahead of yesterday’s game, strongly urging the Bulls to release the fourth-year forward.
It’s time the Bulls and Patrick Williams go their separate ways. The fourth-year forward desperately needs a fresh start.https://t.co/GdOUDMTpGi
— Darnell Mayberry (@DarnellMayberry) November 13, 2023
Given Williams’ recent poor performances, I understand Mayberry’s sentiment, but the Bulls may be stuck in this situation. Throwing up the towel on Chicago’s highest prized prospect so early is an admission of failure that I doubt the front office will be willing to make for a squad already starving for young talent.
This is the Pat the Bulls will need if they want to win games consistently, so if he can do that, I’m sure he’ll get the large money he’s supposedly asking for. Even if he doesn’t routinely achieve those levels, it will simply serve to lower his price tag in the summer, making it even more difficult to let him go.
Finally, this season will determine whether Williams’ future is as a great role player or a legitimate starting-caliber player with star potential. In any case, that future should most likely be spent with the Bulls. Williams’ next opportunity to shine will come in a pair of home games against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday and Friday.
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