Patrick Williams' role with the Chicago Bulls for the 2026-27 NBA season is under serious scrutiny as training camp approaches. The team's recent front office and coaching overhaul, coupled with Williams' career-low production last year, has cast doubt on his future minutes. The Bulls are coming off a tough 149-128 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on April 13, part of a recent form of two wins and three losses in their last five games.
Williams signed a five-year, $90 million extension in 2024, but his development has stalled. Last season, he averaged just 7.0 points and 3.0 rebounds per game on 37.2% shooting from the field. He played only 20.5 minutes per contest, often losing time to Matas Buzelis and Isaac Okoro. With $54 million remaining on his deal, his contract isn't untradeable, but moving it might require attaching a draft pick.
The Bulls' busy summer reshaped the roster and leadership. They hired Bryson Graham as vice president of basketball operations and Tiago Splitter as the new head coach. Through the draft, they added Caleb Wilson and Dailyn Swain. A trade brought in Nic Claxton from Brooklyn, and Norman Powell was signed in free agency.
Leonard Miller is the primary threat to Williams' playing time. Miller had a promising seven-game stretch in April, putting up 16.1 points and 7.9 rebounds per game on 57.7% shooting. While it's a small sample size, his performance gives him a real chance to earn a rotation spot in camp. The projected frontcourt depth has Buzelis, Wilson, and Claxton starting, with Okoro, Zach Collins, and Jalen Smith as key backups.
This leaves Williams fighting for scraps. The question isn't just about starting, but whether the former fourth overall pick can even crack the regular rotation. Miller's potential upside and the team's new direction under Splitter create a challenging environment for Williams to reclaim his place.
The team's current state adds urgency to these roster decisions. Their recent form shows inconsistency, with a pattern of LLWWL in their last five outings. After beating the Washington Wizards twice on April 7 and 9, they fell to the Orlando Magic 127-103 on April 11 before the heavy defeat in Dallas. You can review the full schedule and results on our schedule page.
This core, featuring Wilson, Buzelis, and Josh Giddey, is expected to lead the charge under Splitter, who guided Portland to the playoffs last season. The integration of new players and a new system makes every roster spot competitive. Williams' hefty contract and recent performance make him a notable question mark as the Bulls try to build a consistent winner.
Training camp will be decisive. Williams needs to demonstrate significant improvement to convince the new coaching staff he deserves a major role. If Miller outplays him, a reduced role or even a trade becomes more likely. The Bulls have invested heavily in Williams, but the NBA is a results-oriented business.
Fans have been critical of his play over the last two seasons, and trade rumors have swirled this offseason. The front office's moves signal a commitment to a new era. For Williams, the upcoming camp is about proving he can be a part of it. His ability to adapt and contribute on both ends of the floor will determine his future in Chicago.
