Is it time for Javonte Green to replace Patrick Williams in the starting five?

After a raucous start, the Chicago Bulls have disappointed in their last two games, culminating in a 128-96 shellacking at the hands of the Cleveland Cavaliers during their home opener on Saturday. Patrick Williams has been the starter at power forward in all three games, but some believe it's high time Javonte Green takes his spot. Is change forthcoming as the Bulls take on the reigning Eastern Conference champions Boston Celtics on Monday?

Energy boost

Many were surprised when Bulls head coach Billy Donovan named Williams — the team's fourth pick in the 2020 NBA Draft — the starting power forward on the eve of the team's season opener against the Miami Heat. After all, Williams was yanked out of the starting five one game into the preseason and was only returned there in the team's last match against the undermanned Milwaukee Bucks.

By then, the 29-year-old Green had already captured the fancy of Donovan and the Bulls faithful with his high-energy play. The 6-foot-4 wing averaged 15 points on over 70% shooting, supplying instant offense off the bench. He also had numerous highlight-reel dunks in the four games he played, indicating his athleticism and activity level.

Green's rim-rocking forays have continued in the regular season, notably in their last game against Cleveland when he gave the Bulls an energy boost with plays like this:

GREEN ENERGY 🔋@2Xtremebounce | @NBCSChicago pic.twitter.com/l8zeYw5Vyu
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 23, 2022

And this crazy putback slam:

GET UP OR GET OUT THE WAY.@2Xtremebounce | @NBCSChicago pic.twitter.com/FCjT4gi8mT
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 23, 2022

Although the Bulls still came away with a loss, Donovan lauded the play of his reserves — especially Green — who helped cut the deficit down to single digits in the second half.

"I know it's only one game, the third game of the year, but that's kind of who Javonte has been. That group out there did a good job the way we competed and battled. We were flying around and getting loose balls. Even when we made mistakes, we were hustling to recover. There was a fire and spirit and competitiveness to us, and we've got to find that collectively as a group from top to bottom," said Donovan.

Williams has underwhelmed

On the other hand, Williams has been virtually invisible in their first three outings, totaling just 17 points and six rebounds. The team has also been outscored by 27 in his time on the floor. Williams' minutes also dwindled to just 15 last time out after playing over 20 minutes in each of the team's first two matches.

It remains to be seen if Donovan will give Green the starting nod against the Celtics, but based on their recent performances, it certainly looks like it's time for a change.