The Chicago Bulls give another chance to their 2020 discovery despite the injury woes. The 6x NBA Champs drafted Patrick Williams as the 4th pick, resting the team’s future on his shoulders. However, in the last 4 years, he has had two shortened seasons due to multiple injuries. While the youngster couldn’t make much of a difference, the team’s responsibility fell over Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan. Heading into the 2024-25 season, the duo’s stay remains uncertain, however, the side seems to have trusted Williams again.

The latest update from Shams Charania revealed that Williams will return to Chicago, despite averaging 9.7 points per game. The Bulls have extended his stay for another 5 years for $90 million. One may wonder why this trade is considered a ‘gamble’. Patrick Williams’ injury woes aren’t the only concern. But, of course, it’s a primary reason.

On the other end, it has something to do with the two stars on the side, DeRozan and LaVine.

In the last season, Zach LaVine played just 25 games, averaging 19.5 points with 5.2 rebounds. He suffered multiple injuries on his right foot and left DeMar DeRozan struggling alone. The 34-year-old DeRozan soaked in all the pressure, playing long minutes, averaging 24 points. However, it all went in vain, as they failed to qualify for the playoffs. So, what about DeRozan’s future?

In return, DeMar DeRozan, who is currently a free agent, didn’t receive an extension yet. Even though Marc Stein, an NBA insider, revealed that the Bulls are working out a deal, the Bulls’ current youth movement suggests that he may have to find a new franchise. On the other hand, LaVine, who showed signs of restraint in the last season, has provoked trade interests in many franchises.

Notably, the Philadelphia 76ers came in as the frontrunner, until Alex Caruso was traded out. Nevertheless, the Bulls are struggling to make a call and/or find a home for both their two stars.

Will Patrick Williams stand up for the side?

The 22-year-old suffered a broken wrist during the 2021-22 season after just playing 17 games. Following that, the Bulls assigned him to G-League Windy City Bulls, to keep him in the loop. He returned the next season, and played the entire season, averaging 10.2 points with about 28-minute game time. In the following season, he again suffered a season-ending injury (acute bone edema). The star again averaged 10 points in 43 games.

While the team has trusted him with 5 more years, they expect a lot from the player in the coming years. Notably, the star showed signs of shooting brilliance from the arc. Currently, Williams has a 3-point percentage of 41.0, which is almost equal to Klay Thompson. Going forward in his career, the Bulls can operate their power forward as someone who can create more space on the floor.

Above, with Josh Giddey and Coby White alongside him, Williams sure does have a young Bulls roster surrounding him. And, if the front office manages to keep both their stars on the roster, then the Bulls can give a tough fight for the Championship in the coming season. Did the Bulls make the right decision by re-signing Williams? Let us know in the comments below.

Before you go, do not forget to check out Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, to open up about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud. Keep checking this space for more such updates.