Bulls' Williams plans to make energy his first contribution
Patrick Williams had a long, unwelcome vacation while recovering from left wrist surgery. So he thinks the best plan early in his return is to bring some energy and take it from there.
"These guys have had a long, long, long season and I've been out most of the season, so I think the first step was just getting back out there on the court," Williams said after returning Monday. "I think we took care of that so now just trying to see which ways I can bring energy.
"Not going to say they're worn down, but having a fresh body to kind of come in that's been out for five months, I think it's good for me to bring a new vibe to the team a little bit. As I get more comfortable, then we can start talking about roles. I think right now, just bring as much energy as possible."
Williams played in his second game Tuesday at Milwaukee and had to deal with guarding two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo at times. Williams said his repaired wrist passed the first test.
"There were a couple pushes here and there where you feel it," he said. "It's kind of like a sprained ankle, that's my best way of explaining it. When you come back from a sprained ankle, you feel it.
"It doesn't really hurt, but you feel it. It feels a little stiff, feels a little tight. Doesn't really hurt, doesn't really stop you from doing anything you want to do, you just feel it when you're out there. That's pretty much the only way I can explain it."
LaVine plays double bill:
Zach LaVine was listed as questionable on the official injury report for this game. Bulls coach Billy Donovan suggested that might be a regular thing, marking LaVine as questionable while they wait to see how his sore left knee feels.
The Bulls do have two sets of back-to-back games left in the regular season. LaVine talked about being more aggressive after last week's loss in Sacramento and was asked if that's put any extra strain on the knee.
"I'm just playing," he said. "I feel good for right now and see how it feels moving forward. At this point, I'm not worried about my knee, I just want to go out here and help us win. At any point if it does hurt, we'll address it then."
No proof needed:
The United Center rescinded the proof of vaccine requirement needed to enter the arena, effective Tuesday. So fans will no longer be required to show a vaccination card on their way in, beginning with the NCAA Midwest Regional later this week.
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