Patrick Williams says he's not focused on the next contract

"My main focus now is helping this team get over the next hump and myself over that hump."

© Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Patrick Williams and the Chicago Bulls did not come to an agreement regarding a contract extension on his rookie contract last Monday, which means he will become a restricted free agent next summer. However, despite the uncertainty surrounding his career in Chicago, Williams vowed to keep his focus on helping the Bulls win more games this season.

The business of basketball

It’s hard to pin a number on what Williams’ next contract will look like. Although he played better in his third year in the league, the aggressiveness and confidence that may expected out of the former Florida State ace came and went in spurts. With that being said, Williams is trying to ignore the future and just focus on the present.

“I’ve never been good at the business of basketball. It really hasn’t been much of an importance of mine up until this point. But obviously this is how I feed my family. Obviously, I want a big contract. I think that’s what I work for and I think it’s what I’m worth. But whenever it comes, it comes,” Williams said.

BANG 💥@NBCSChicago | #SeeRed pic.twitter.com/ezPkUup6jO

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 20, 2023

Lukewarm preseason

Williams’ preseason performances raised more questions than answers regarding what his role would be this season. Experts maintain Williams will bridge the gap between the Bulls’ present and future. 

However, it can be tricky to hinge the franchise’s future on a 22-year-old who averaged just 11 points and three rebounds in five preseason games, at times looking passive and tentative.

“I go out and hoop and try to win games. My main focus now is helping this team get over the next hump and myself over that hump,” Williams asserted what his goal is this season.

Pat going to work in midrange.@NBCSChicago | #SeeRed pic.twitter.com/ISTVtjyepR

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 16, 2023

Report: Patrick Williams wants hefty contract extension with the Chicago Bulls