After being selected fourth overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls, rookie forward Patrick Williams quickly became one of the more questioned and peculiar rookies coming into this season. Being projected all over the first round pre-draft, it was interesting to see the Bulls decide to select him so early.
But for all intents and purposes and to his credit, Williams has stepped in almost seamlessly and played his role perfectly – a gritty defender who at times has shown flashes of offensive prowess.
But with the Bulls adding All-Star talent to this team, the question then shifts to where Williams’ development goes from here? And could he potentially be the third piece behind a very deadly core in Chicago?
The physicals for the Chicago Bulls rookie Patrick Williams
Coming into the NBA at just 19 years old, Williams boasts an impressive 6-foot-7 and 215 pound frame, making him both strong and versatile on both sides of the ball. On top of this, he has very large hands and a 6-foot-11 wingspan, making him very naturally gifted on the defensive end, allowing for him to swipe at ball handlers and cut passing lanes with ease.
He has also shown an improved ability to read the game, allowing for him to utilize his size and versatility to make great plays on both sides of the ball
Pat Williams’ defense is ridic pic.twitter.com/rChwrwkXD3
— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 1, 2021
With him being so young, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him put on some more weight and become even more physical on and off-ball.
A common theme that will emerge with Williams’ development is the fact that he is one of the youngest players in the NBA, and thus the sky is really the limit for him. His already impressive frame will continue to get better, and will undoubtedly make him an even better defender.