THE The Chicago Bulls The Red Devils are committed to their youth movement, but the financial implications are under scrutiny. The team, already burdened by the hefty contracts of veterans Lonzo Ball, Nikola Vucevic and Zach LaVine, recently signed Patrick Williams to a five-year, $90 million deal.
John Hollinger of The Athleticwho was previously vice president of basketball operations for the Memphis Grizzlies, expressed concerns about the Bulls’ decision to invest heavily in Williams.
“I like the general concept of Chicago pulling the strings and going for youth, even if it came a year too late,” Hollinger wrote on Aug. 23. “On the other hand, Williams got paid because he was the fourth pick in the 2020 draft and because… well, I struggle with the rest.”
Patrick Williams improved his handling/slashing pic.twitter.com/rz3XNoxXgH
— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) August 9, 2024
Williams, who averaged 10.0 points and 3.9 rebounds in the 2023-24 season, saw his numbers drop from the previous year, with his rebounding hitting a career low. His season was cut short by a foot injury after just 43 games.
Hollinger questioned the Bulls’ decision to pay Williams as if his improvement was guaranteed, saying, “This contract pays him as if he’s guaranteed to improve significantly. It seems like a big leap of faith when he’s been there four years and he’s barely improved at all.” He added, “There was certainly a dollar amount where it made sense with Williams, but five years and $90 million with a player option, it doesn’t. And if someone else wants to pay him that money … let them.”
Hollinger’s criticism of Williams’ contract echoes reactions to Vucevic’s three-year, $60 million extension through 2023, which has also been questioned around the league.
The Bulls’ tendency to hand out large contracts has left them with limited flexibility, and Williams’ deal will only intensify the scrutiny on Chicago’s management as they navigate the next chapter of their rebuild.
Steph Curry joins LeBron James and Michael Jordan on historic list after Olympics
Lonzo Ball Reveals Draymond Green’s Trashy Message To Him
Chicago Bulls Guard’s Honest Quote About DeMar DeRozan After Trade To Kings
