Patrick Williams told NBA reporters today (2/24) that he “would love” to re-sign with the Chicago Bulls this summer.
Williams, who will undergo season-ending surgery on his left foot, becomes a restricted free agent this offseason.
“I don’t think anybody knows what their future is, to be honest,” Williams said, via K.C. Johnson of NBA Sports Chicago. “I would love to continue to be a Bull. I love it here. I love the opportunity we have to build culture, to build something special with this group and this team. I think I could really be a cornerstone piece for this team. But you never know what the future holds and I understand it’s a business.”
Williams averaged 10.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.8 blocks this season in 43 games while shooting 44.3% from the field, 39.9% from 3 and 78.8% from the free-throw line.
The Bulls drafted Williams with the fourth overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft out of Florida State. Williams has career averages of 9.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.7 blocks.
“Like I said, I love it here,” Williams said. “I love the team. I love the guys. I love the front office. For now, worry about the surgery and getting back playing and let the chips fall where they may. … Nobody has really even talked about contract stuff. It’s more so about getting me back healthy, which I appreciate.”
Williams becomes a restricted free agent after the Bulls offer him a $12.9 qualifying offer. As a restricted free agent, Williams can either re-sign with Chicago or sign an offer sheet with another team.
The Bulls would have 48 hours to match an offer sheet should Williams sign one with a rival team.
“I think I know what I showed when I was healthy this season,” Williams said. “I think I know who I am as a player and what I’m capable of. Nervous isn’t the word. I’m kind of excited to see what happens and to get back to playing.”
More must-reads: