Bulls Trade Rumors: Chicago Seeking Wing Defender After Patrick Williams Injury

The Chicago Bulls are reportedly targeting a wing defender ahead of the 2022 NBA trade deadline.

Matt Moore of The Action Network reported that the Bulls are buyers on the market and are looking at options to replace Patrick Williams, who will likely miss the remainder of the regular season because of his wrist injury.

The Bulls have gotten off to a surprising 17-10 start, thanks in large part to their strong guard play. DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine are both averaging more than 26 points per game, and Lonzo Ball has provided a steady two-way hand at the point guard spot.

Williams, a 6'7" forward with a 7-foot wingspan that makes him capable of defending four positions on the floor, emerged as Chicago's best individual defender early in the season. The Bulls still rank eighth in defensive efficiency this season without Williams, but their adaptability is lessened without someone with his versatility on the floor.

It's unclear who the Bulls may target given it's unlikely the team will want to mess with its chemistry by moving an impact rotation player.

That said, it wouldn't be a surprise if a veteran languishing on a lottery team finds himself in Chicago by February.