Torrey Craig has taken it upon himself to help Patrick Williams become better

Craig has got Patrick Williams' back.

© David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Bulls know that part of their success will hinge on the development of promising forward Patrick Williams. The fourth overall pick of the 2020 NBA Draft, the talented 6-foot-8 forward has oscillated between promising flashes and moments of inconsistency.

In order to help Williams develop, the Bulls have brought in veteran forward Torrey Craig to provide support and guidance. His presence is seen as invaluable to Patrick's continued maturation on the court, with his knowledge of the game being an important factor in helping him reach his potential.

Push him to the limit

The Bulls and its faithful are still waiting for the Florida State product to make that all-important “leap.” Williams has been a source of frustration amongst fans over the last few seasons, especially since he was picked ahead of All-Star Tyrese Haliburton and rising stars Tyrese Maxey and Desmond Bane. 

While he sometimes shows a level of aggressiveness that leads to superb results, it’s often followed by a period of inconsistency that can be baffling. This is where the veteran Craig comes in.

“Part of my job here is to try to get as much out of him as I can. In practice, I’m going to compete with him. I’m going to talk trash to him. I’m going to be physical with him, bump him around a little bit and try to get more of a competitive edge out of him,” Craig said.

“He’s kind of from the same area [in the Carolinas], like 40 minutes from where I’m from. I always knew who he was and I’m trying to get the best out of him every day,” he added.

Patrick Williams with 10 points on 4/6 shooting, 2/3 on 3s in the first quarter

Glad to see him shooting the ball well, but still want to see him get into the paint a bit more, draw some fouls and generate some assist opportunities pic.twitter.com/tiEJE0QdZd

— Will Gottlieb (@Will_Gottlieb) October 16, 2023

Consistency is key

Williams hears the chirps and acknowledges how right these are. If he is to become the franchise cornerstone. Many hope he will become one for the Bulls, consistency must be a trait he displays this season and beyond.

“Consistency is going to be a big factor of it," Williams said during training camp. “Being more consistent rebounding, pushing the ball, being aggressive in transition, creating off the dribble, catch-and-shoots. Just a more forceful me. I’ve shown it all. Now I think it’s time to put the puzzle together.”

Patrick Williams pic.twitter.com/fIvbNtxOow

— Gustavo (@iamvega1982) October 16, 2023

Torrey Craig shares why he believes the Bulls will give all their opponents a run for their money