Bulls rookie Patrick Williams’ status for Friday is ‘up in the air’

The fourth overall pick did not play on Monday versus the Rockets due to a right hip contusion.

After sitting on Monday with a hip contusion, Chicago Bulls rookie Patrick Williams’ status to play on Friday versus the Charlotte Hornets is still to be determined, head coach Billy Donovan said on Wednesday.

Williams initially suffered the injury on Sunday against the Dallas Mavericks. Williams felt fine on Monday morning, according to Donovan, but experienced some tightness and stiffness, and ultimately did not suit up versus the Houston Rockets.

The contest on Monday marked the first absence of the season for Williams after he had started in each of the Bulls’ previous 13 games to that point. With Williams sidelined, the Bulls opted to start guard Garrett Temple in his place.

Williams has emerged as a key player and perhaps the best defender on the Bulls’ roster this season. He is averaging 10.2 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 26.9 minutes per game on 50% shooting (14-of-28) from 3-point range.

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