Does Patrick Williams have the mental tools to flourish in the NBA?

As critical as the play of the Chicago Bulls’ “Big 3” of DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, and Nikola Vucevic is, one can argue that the performance of young forward Patrick Williams next season may ultimately be one of the primary barometers of success for the franchise. A recent mailbag session by Bulls insider K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago tackled what are the realistic expectations for the former Florida State stud heading to the 2023-2024 season.

Does Williams have the proper mindset?

According to Johnson, the Bulls and Williams have been working together to help the 6-foot-7 forward adopt an aggressive mindset, whether he’s playing with the ball dominators or the reserves.

“Does he have the mental tools? That’s what the organization has worked with him on---to develop a more aggressive mindset,” Johnson wrote.

While it can be tricky trying to keep an aggressive mindset when you aren’t getting the requisite touches, therein lies the challenge for Williams. He needs to find a way to make an impact with or without the ball and continue pushing himself in order to maximize his potential.

“Williams is very introspective and openly talked about his difficulty playing alongside players who need the ball, like DeRozan, LaVine, and Vucevic. But you can still be aggressive in those situations---cutting with purpose, sprinting in transition, attacking the offensive boards at the right time, setting good screens, making quick and proper decisions on attacking closeouts,” Johnson added.

Can he keep it going?

While Williams began the season as the starting power forward, he ended the season anchoring the bench in favor of the more experienced Alex Caruso. However, that move did wonders as it allowed the athletic forward to unleash his arsenal. Now, with Williams expected to return to the starting five, the question is can he keep that going?

“I thought Donovan made a great move bringing him off the bench. Now, the trick is to keep that mentality but exhibit it more consistently with the starters, even if the shots aren’t as numerous,” Johnson said.