Bulls Notes: Patrick Williams, Josh Giddey, Zach LaVine, Lonzo Ball

December 5, 2024

The Chicago Bulls are treading water without Patrick Williams, and it sounds like they’ll be doing so for at least a few more games.

Williams, sidelined since November 18 with inflammation in his surgically repaired left foot, will miss the team’s back-to-back matchups against the Spurs and Pacers this week.

Head coach Billy Donovan offered a glimmer of hope, noting that Williams’ return window could open next week. But here’s the catch: he hasn’t practiced yet. Best-case scenario? Maybe Sunday against Philly. More likely? Circle next Friday’s game against Charlotte after the Bulls enjoy a four-day breather.

The Bulls desperately need Williams, not just for his defense but also to help stabilize a frontcourt rotation that’s been as inconsistent as the Midwest weather.

Giddey’s Steady Hand Amid Trade Scrutiny

Remember the buzz when the Bulls traded Alex Caruso for Josh Giddey this summer? A move like that naturally invites scrutiny, and Giddey isn’t shying away from it.

“Anytime you get traded for a player like (Caruso), there’s a lot of talk,” Giddey said. But here’s the thing: he’s not letting it get in his head.

Through 22 games, Giddey’s performance has been, well, uneven. But he’s staying true to himself, focusing on fitting in and helping this group grow. It’s clear the Bulls see him as a piece of the puzzle, not the whole solution.

For now, Giddey’s job is to quiet the noise, build chemistry, and let his game do the talking. Easier said than done in a city where expectations are sky-high.

White, Ball Updates

Speaking of guards, Coby White will miss his second straight game with a left ankle sprain. The good news? It’s not expected to be a long-term issue. Lonzo Ball, meanwhile, will sit Thursday for load management before suiting up Friday against the Pacers.

Lonzo’s situation feels like a game of chess, not checkers. The Bulls are playing the long game, which makes sense given his injury history.

LaVine’s Mental Reset and Defensive Evolution

Let’s talk about Zach LaVine. Coming off a rocky offseason filled with trade whispers and questions about his contract, LaVine could’ve easily been a distraction. Instead, he’s been a model of focus and professionalism.

According to Billy Donovan, LaVine has processed any frustration and is in a “really good headspace.” That’s coach-speak for: he’s locked in.

What’s more, LaVine is embracing a new role as a defensive stopper. Yes, you read that right. The high-flying scorer is taking on tougher defensive assignments, drawing inspiration from guys like Kobe, MJ, and D-Wade.

“It’s opened my eyes,” LaVine said. “You’ve got to be top-tier physically and mentally. It takes away from the offense, but that’s where you dig deep and see how much you want it.”

If LaVine can balance this two-way responsibility, the Bulls’ ceiling rises dramatically.

What’s Next?

The Bulls are navigating a delicate balancing act. They’re waiting on key players to get healthy, integrating new pieces like Giddey, and asking their stars to evolve. It’s not perfect, but it’s progress.

Keep an eye on Williams’ return and how LaVine’s newfound defensive edge impacts the team’s identity. If they can string together wins and find consistency, this group might just have something to say in the East.