Injuries were the defining storyline for the Chicago Bulls last season, and how the team recovers from those injuries could define the 2024-25 campaign.
One of the players whose 2023-24 season was cut short was forward Patrick Williams, who last played on Jan. 25. Williams fractured his left foot, requiring season-ending surgery.
The Bulls believed the 23-year-old, who was selected fourth overall in the 2020 NBA draft, would be ready to start this season. So much so that the team signed him to a five-year contract worth $90 million..
That belief is being put to the test. Darnell Mayberry of The Athletic reports that during the team’s mini-camp in Miami, Williams felt discomfort in his surgically repaired footwhich required additional rest.
The Bulls hope the rest is part of the healing process and not a reason to worry about Williams’ long-term future in Chicago. However, it’s not yet clear if Williams will be ready for the start of training camp.
In July, Williams said he had made progress in his rehabilitation. “I’m doing pretty good,” Williams said. “I’m running and jumping now. No pain. No swelling. So it’s just getting my legs back.”
In four seasons, Williams played in 213 games, including 175 as a starter. He averaged 9.7 points and 4.2 rebounds per game, shooting 47% from the field and 41% from three-point range. He was selected to the All-Rookie Team after the 2020-21 season.
The Bulls open training camp Oct. 1 at the Advocate Center in downtown Chicago.
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