Billy Donovan wants Patrick Williams to be more aggressive. The fourth-year forward has enjoyed a strong start to the season, but Donovan believes he can have an even greater impact. Williams has been one of the bright spots this season despite a difficult few months for the Chicago Bulls roster.
Donovan’s comments came when speaking to the media following Chicago’s loss to the Miami Heat on Saturday (Dec. 16.) Williams had produced a solid statline of 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists, shooting 80% from 3-point range and 80% from the field. As such, Donovan knows that Mitchell can provide a similar impact on a nightly basis.
“With younger players, you don’t want to play in a wide gap where there are these drastic differences. Whether he makes shots or misses shots, it’s the aggressiveness. And he clearly on Thursday night wasn’t as aggressive as he was (Saturday). And we gotta get him to be consistent doing that,” Donovan said. “He’s gotta own that. When he does what he does (Saturday), he’s a huge boost to our team.”
Williams is one of Chicago’s only young, high-potential players. The roster has been constructed around aging stars, which is primarily why Chicago is expected to be active around the trade deadline. However, Williams’ upside and importance to the franchise means that he’s unlikely to be included in any potential trade discussions.
The 22-year-old forward has had flashes of his potential since entering the NBA but has struggled to string those impressive performances together. With multiple years of development time ahead of him, hopes should still be high for Williams to figure it out and become an integral member of the rotation.
