Patrick Williams is reportedly re-signing with the Chicago Bulls on a five-year deal, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
The deal is reportedly worth $90 million. This marks the first major investment by the Bulls this offseason, signaling the team’s focus on youth. Williams, the fourth overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft out of Florida State, is just 22 years old.
Matas Buzelis, the Bulls’ first-round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and Josh Giddey, who was acquired in a trade involving Alex Caruso, are 19 and 21 years old, respectively.
Patrick Williams intends to sign a five-year, $90 million deal to return to the Chicago Bulls, league sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. pic.twitter.com/L4ImJS29xf
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2024
Williams brings significant experience to the Bulls, having played in 213 games and started in 175 of them. Locking him up with a multi-year deal worth $90 million underscores his importance to the team’s future plans.
“I take my role of reshaping this team very seriously. Everything is on the table,” said Bulls executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas.
Patrick Williams, who averaged 9.7 points and 4.2 rebounds per game over his four seasons with the Bulls, was headed for restricted free agency this summer with a $13 million fifth-year qualifying offer for 2024-25. Known as a 3-and-D player, he may not have fully lived up to the expectations of being the fourth overall pick, but he’s established himself as the Bulls’ best go-to defender.
Inconsistent play and injuries have hampered Williams’ progress throughout his career. He underwent surgery for a bone edema in his left foot on February 23, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Additionally, he missed five months of the 2021-2022 season due to a dislocated wrist.
The future remains uncertain for Williams as he works his way back from his foot injury. His development could benefit from a different coaching staff, but his immediate focus will be on recovering fully and getting back on the court.
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