In the Bulls’ second preseason game on Friday, Billy Donovan called on Javonte Green in the starting lineup in place of Patrick Williams.
Following Friday’s victory, Donovan said he didn’t see the lineup change as a ‘demotion’.
“To me, it’s a preseason game. I don’t view it that way. I don’t think Patrick does either. The last thing I would call it would be a demotion,” Donovan said. “He’s (Patrick) here to help our team in any way he can help our team, whether he comes off the bench or starts.”
Green has been a standout in the first two preseason games, scoring 18 points against the Pelicans and 15 points in Friday’s win against the Nuggets.
“Javonte with that group brings a lot of energy. He just makes things happen, hustle plays, loose balls, offensive rebounds, getting out in transition,” Donovan said. “He’ll drive it, find an open man. He’s really a high energy guy with whoever he’s playing with. When you put Javonte out there, you know what you’re going to get.”
For Williams, he seemed to remain positive with the lineup change, knowing that his job is ‘to be ready’ no matter the circumstances.
“I didn’t really think too much into it. When he told me, I was all for it,” Williams said. “My job is to be productive and use my talents to try to help the team win. I think that’s everybody’s job. It’s not up to me when or where my name gets called. My job is to be ready whenever my name is called.”
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