Chicago Bulls Could Consider Trading Patrick Williams as Trade Deadline Approaches
The Chicago Bulls have long held Patrick Williams in high regard, keeping him out of trade talks in the past. However, there is a growing sense that this could change as the trade deadline approaches. Rival executives are quietly monitoring the availability of Williams, who failed to sign an extension with Chicago, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.
Williams, the fourth overall pick in the 2020 draft, has been averaging 10.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists this season, with a shooting percentage of 39.9% from beyond the arc. Unfortunately, he is currently sidelined due to a foot injury. The team’s official statement on January 30 revealed that Williams has been diagnosed with acute bone edema in his left foot and will undergo a period of active rest before being reassessed in approximately two weeks.
This injury is different from the right ankle strain that previously kept him out of three games. Williams expressed his reluctance to wear a boot, stating, “Naturally I said hell no. I know what it looks like.” The timeline of his recovery puts him up against the All-Star break, and it might make sense for the Bulls to keep him out until they return from the break on February 22.
Williams’ situation presents a challenge for the Bulls as he is in the final year of his rookie contract. While they have restricted free agency control over him, it only postpones the issue. Analysts projected that Williams could command a contract worth $100 million in the future, but he has not met the expectations set by the front office this season.
The Bulls’ front office now faces the question of whether they are willing to go back on their belief in Williams’ potential. His development has been compared to that of Tyrese Haliburton and Scottie Barnes, guards for the Indiana Pacers and forwards for the Toronto Raptors, respectively. The Bulls selected Williams ahead of Haliburton in the draft, and Barnes is from Williams’ alma mater, Florida State.
Aside from Williams, the Bulls have limited assets of value on the trade market. With Zach LaVine out for the season due to foot surgery, the team may need to consider a different strategy with veteran DeMar DeRozan, who is in the final year of his contract.
ALEX CARUSO’S CONTRACT STATUS RAISES CONCERNS FOR BULLS
In a surprising turn of events, the Chicago Bulls have not shown any interest in trading away their star player, Alex Caruso. Despite receiving numerous calls from other teams, the Bulls have actively turned away any offers for Caruso. However, this decision could prove to be a risky move for the team.
Caruso, who will be entering the final year of his contract next season, is already in his 30s. Alongside him, DeMar DeRozan will also be well into his 30s by the end of his next contract. This raises questions about the long-term investment the Bulls are making in these players.
Currently, the Bulls are fighting to maintain their spot in the Play-In Tournament as the ninth seed in the Eastern Conference. In addition to Caruso, they have also been missing Lonzo Ball for the past two-plus seasons. This absence has undoubtedly affected the team’s performance.
Interestingly, backup big man Andre Drummond is rumored to be the most likely trade candidate on the Bulls’ roster. According to Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer, the trade deadline is fast approaching on February 8th. It remains to be seen whether the Bulls will make any moves to strengthen their team before the deadline.
As the NBA season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Bulls navigate these contract situations and whether they can secure a spot in the playoffs. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
