Chicago Bulls: 3 takeaways from the West Coast road trip

Patrick Williams needs more shots and more consideration for ROTY

Patrick Williams is making his case for being the most interesting Bulls rookie since Derrick Rose.

Though it is absolutely not the same hype or in the same way, Williams is turning heads in Chicago.

Viewed as a reach by many after being selected fourth overall in the 2020 draft, Patrick Williams has shut down many criticisms with his quiet explosiveness as an athlete, his remarkably smooth jumper and his incredible fight as a defender.

The former Seminole had rookie moments but gave a good fight to two of the best in the league in LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard back-to-back. He then received praise from both players on his defensive poise and his promising future.

Coming out as someone who’s pro comparison was Leonard, it flashed on the biggest stage against the best players.

Not bad for a reach.

There have also been stretches where Williams looks like he can make his own shot. Perhaps not in the same way as LaVine and Coby White, but Williams can handle well and get to the basket with relative ease.

He also has a great pump fake in his bag to compliment his high-rising mid-range jumper. His ceiling is as high as he wants it to be, especially considering that he is only 19.

All of that being said, Williams only averages eight shots per contest during his average 26 minutes on the floor. In order for the Bulls’ offense to further develop, P-Dub should be scripted to take more shots.