Williams’ Bulls stay has not gone as anticipated, which could lead to a move.
Patrick Williams, a Chicago Bulls forward, was once the franchise’s best property, but it appears he may be on his way out. The Bulls’ fourth overall choice in the 2020 NBA Draft is said to be the apple of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s eye.
According to Darnell Mayberry of The Athletic, the Thunder are impressed by the 6-foot-7, 215-pounder’s size.
“Soon comes the moment of truth,” Mayberry added. “If the Bulls have had enough of the Williams experiment, one team that is very interested, according to a league source, is Oklahoma City.” The Thunder require more size, and they have a plethora of draft picks that may sweeten the deal for the Bulls if a sign-and-trade occurs in July.”
Williams was a competent rotation player for Chicago until suffering a season-ending foot injury. In 43 games, the 22-year-old averaged 10.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists while shooting 44.3%.
However, that is insufficient production for a top-five pick. That’s why the Bulls are eager to bring him back, but only at a certain cost.
“A league source said the Bulls offered Williams a contract north of $16 million annually when the two sides were negotiating last fall,” Mayberry added. “That will now be the standard to beat for Williams, who will become a restricted free agent this summer. However, because a season-ending foot injury in January limited Williams to 43 games, he did not have the opportunity to demonstrate his superior value.
Restricted free agents can accept an offer sheet from any team, but their original team can keep them by matching the offer.
Will Williams stay in the Windy City or go for greener pastures?
Don’t be surprised if the Thunder miss out on Williams…for now
General managers tend to be more attached to the athletes they draft. Artūras Karnišovas, Chicago’s front office head, may consider renewing the contract with Williams for another year.
“How much do the Bulls value? Williams will now be intriguing to watch play out,” Mayberry stated. “He was Karnišovas’ first draft pick, selected fourth in 2020. The front office and coaching staff have backed, and at times defended, Williams through everything from poor performance to injuries.
This can also be harmful, since team executives may be in denial about their selection failures. However, Williams is still young, so he has time to advance.
According to K.J. Johnson of NBC Sports, the Florida State alum indicated interest following his injury.
“Williams said he doesn’t know how his restricted free agency will play out, but he’d welcome a return to the Bulls,” Johnson tweeted on February 24th.
However, if the Thunder offer $20 million or more per year, it may be too much for the Bulls’ blood. Chicago will hold their price restriction close to the vest, thus Oklahoma City may have to simply feel things out in a bidding battle.
If Williams does join the Thunder, he might form an intriguing partnership with fellow big man Chet Holmgren.
