Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James recently praised Chicago Bulls rookie Patrick Williams after the first matchup between their teams this season. The four-time NBA MVP also raved about Williams' physical tools and saw some similarities with that of Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard, per Rob Schaefer.
https://twitter.com/rob_schaef/status/1347795067935854594?s=20
Indeed, Williams showed his capabilities on the defensive end as he guarded James for the majority of the game. He snagged six points along with eight rebounds but came up huge with four steals through 36 minutes of action. Despite his applaudable performance, Williams knows that he still has a lot to improve in their coming games.
“I can always do better. There were a couple plays early where he kind of was able to get to his spots. He was kind of too comfortable, and that led him to be more aggressive,” Williams said via NBC Sports. “But like I said, it’s a learning experience 10 games. And we got at least 62 more.”
Meanwhile, James didn't allow the rookie to get the best of him as he showed out with an all-around performance of 28 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Dennis Schroder also stepped up with 17 points while Montrezl Harrell added 17 points and 14 rebounds.
Even with the 38-point scoring outburst of Zach LaVine, the Anthony Davis-less Lakers were able to successfully execute in crunch time to carve a narrow 117-115 victory. The Purple and Gold now improved to a 7-3 record while the Bulls dropped to their second consecutive loss en route to a 4-6 tally.
After getting his baptism of fire against LeBron James, Patrick Williams will certainly look to use the experience to further improve and contribute more to the Bulls' cause moving forward. Williams will have his hands full once again as his team goes up against the Los Angeles Clippers on Jan. 10.
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