The question is being asked whether Leonard Miller has surpassed Patrick Williams in the Chicago Bulls’ rotation. This comes after Miller got a second consecutive start against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Miller’s Impactful Performances
In his last four games with meaningful minutes, Miller has averaged 12 points and seven rebounds. This includes a 17-point, 11-rebound performance against Golden State. Matas Buzelis said Miller is a “monster”.
Miller, a 6-10 forward, was a force against the Warriors, securing six offensive rebounds. A criticism of Williams has been a lack of tenacity on the offensive glass. He has had too many lethargic games and not enough urgency.
Contrasting Stats: Miller vs. Williams
Since joining the Bulls in the trade with the Timberwolves, Miller has posted a team-high plus-7.5 per game in plus/minus in 10 games. Williams is near the bottom of the team with a minus-4.8 per game.
The Bulls lost seven of the 10 games Miller played. Miller has still produced winning basketball whenever he’s on the floor.
Miller’s Mindset and Future
Miller said he wasn’t playing with Minnesota so he kind of got used to it. He added that despite this, he is still ready and locked in. “I’m always ready to go out there and compete at a high level. I think I demonstrated that and that’s what I’m going to continue to demonstrate. Me playing at a high level and having a good game, I’m kind of not surprised because I have that belief in myself, I’m confident, and I feel like the sky is the limit with me.”
Williams’ Injury and Miller’s Opportunity
After Miller played solid minutes against the Phoenix Suns, he only got a minute of mop-up time in the next game against the Sacramento Kings. Williams returned from an injury and played 17 minutes in that loss. Williams tweaked his ankle, and that’s why Miller got the start against the Warriors.
Coach Billy Donovan said Miller is very active on the glass and a good runner in transition. Donovan added he is a very active body as far as cutting and moving. “I just like his activity and his motor. There’s certain things he’s inexperienced at that will come.”