The Chicago Bulls are eagerly trying to get themselves back into the conversation of being one of the NBA’s most elite teams.
The Bulls were finally able to break their playoff drought when they made the playoffs in 2022 as the 6th seed in the East; however, the Bulls were no threat to make it out of the first round.
Chicago would then fail to make the playoffs in 2023. The Bulls have two rising stars that could help them achieve the elite level they have been desperately trying to reach: Coby White and Patrick Williams.
Patrick Williams and Coby White are poised for breakout seasons that could reshape the Bulls’ trajectory.
Coby White: The Streaky Shooter
Despite a career low in points per game, Coby White showcased an improved skillset. White has always been a streaky shooter for the Chicago Bulls, getting hot at times, but never consistently. This changed last season, specifically post-all-star break, when Coby White shot 49% from the field and 41% from 3-point range, always being a scoring threat for the Chicago Bulls bench. Not only did Coby White’s shooting become consistent, but he also improved his ball handling, court vision, and playmaking skills.
While Coby White is not known as a great defender, his defensive play improved significantly. White was more engaged defensively, actively setting himself up to make it tough on the opposition to score. Offensively, Coby White showcased improved playmaking ability making the right decision on attacking the rim or finding a teammate for the better shot.
Coby White will have the ability to earn the starting point guard spot this season. Although the Chicago Bulls signed Jevon Carter, who will earn the starting point guard spot in the Bulls’ lineup remains to be seen. If White can build off of this play last year, he will be in an excellent position to earn that spot. After all, the Bulls weren’t willing to lose Coby White as they signed him to a 3-year fully guaranteed contract. The development of Coby White is undoubtedly an aspect that the team wants to focus on.
Patrick Williams: The Versatile Defender
When the Chicago Bulls selected Patrick Williams 4th overall in the 2020 draft, they saw a versatile forward who could develop into a great two-way player.
Williams has already showcased his defensive ability by making multiple great plays and having the confidence to be aggressive.
Patrick has also showcased the ability to be great offensively. In his career, Williams shoots 47.7% from the field and 41.4% from beyond the arch.
Patrick Williams must be a complete player on both ends of the floor. He has been a tremendous defensive force for the Bulls. Still, it’s time to become a more significant offensive threat. Williams has sought guidance from all-star DeMar DeRozan, which has tremendously helped his mid-range shooting.
Expanding to be more than a “3 and D” player for the Bulls this season would improve the team’s play. Knocking down midrange shots, driving to the rim, and playmaking, in addition to consistent 3-point shooting, would help the Bulls have an organic offense. Patrick Williams is headed into the 23-24 NBA season on the last year of his rookie contract; if there’s ever a time to break out, it’s now.
A New Era of Success
The breakout potential of Coby White and Patrick Williams shines as a beacon of hope as the Chicago Bulls set out on a quest to restore their place among the NBA’s elite.
Both players have the tools to enhance their roles and change the team’s identity thanks to White’s explosive scoring and playmaking ability, Williams’ adaptable defensive capabilities, and developing offensive games.
A breakthrough year for these young stars would be advantageous for the Bulls and help resurrect a legendary organization.
Coby White and Patrick Williams might play a key role in ushering in a new era of success for the Chicago Bulls as they continue to develop their abilities, adjust to the demands of the NBA, and continue to grow both on and off the court.
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