After snapping a four-year playoff drought in the 2021-22 season, the Chicago Bulls took a step back this past season. They got bounced in the Play-In Tournament by the Miami Heat, as they found themselves out of the playoffs once again. But rather than reset, the Bulls are looking to push forward.
At the end of the year, Arturas Karnisovas stated that Chicago had no intention of rebuilding the roster, as they wanted to keep the current core together and remain competitive. And while they’ve made solid additions to the roster this summer, they need to get better internally, too, if they want to make significant improvements next season.
During an interview on the broadcast of Chicago’s first Summer League game against the Toronto Raptors, GM Marc Eversley spoke about the important of Patrick Williams‘ growth to the improvement of the Bulls. (H/t Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times)
“I think this is a really big year for [him],” Eversley said. “For us to take that next level, Patrick’s got to grow. I know he’s put in the work this summer — he’ll continue to put in the work. He’s really got to take another step. Learning how to play with those three guys [LaVine, DeRozan and Vucevic] is going to be critical for him. Whether it’s making shots, getting to the bucket . . . he’s got to take that next step offensively.”
Chicago has a solid core, but Williams is definitely the key. He’s already a great defender, but if he can take massive leaps on the offensive end, the Bulls will get a much-needed boost, and potentially, a fourth star.
