After Coby White’s calf strain limited his camp activity, the Bulls were hit with another setback this week.
The Chicago Bulls forward Patrick Williams left practice early after suffering an ankle sprain, head coach Billy Donovan confirmed during media availability at the Advocate Center.
Donovan said Williams hadn’t anticipated the encounter, but believed he hurt his ankle after going up for a layup and landing awkwardly. While the severity and timeline are still unclear, Williams was later seen on a bike following practice, a small sign of encouragement.
Williams enters camp with a significant contract hanging over him—a five-year, $90 million extension he signed in 2024. Expectations were high, but he has struggled to perform on that level. The former fourth draft pick's recent seasons have featured flashes and promise, but also injuries, uneven production, and questions about his role and impact.
Last season in particular was his most underwhelming to date. Williams averaged just 9.0 points, 3.8 boards and 0.5 blocks with 39.7% field goal and 51.2% true shooting, considered the worst of his career so far.
This season was meant to be a chance at redemption. With a reshaped roster and roster shifts around him, Williams had the opportunity to prove he could be more than a rotation piece. Now, the sprained ankle clouds that outlook. Hours after the injury, coaches and staff will likely evaluate whether this is a short bump or the start of another extended absence.
For Williams, this moment is pivotal. The Bulls and their fans need answers—not just about his health, but about his role and trajectory on a team expecting more. This season, more than ever, will test whether he can turn promise into performance.
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