 During the 1975-76 WCHL season, Williams was one of the top assist getters in the WCHL with 87, only behind the likes of top players such as Bernie Federko who would go on to illustrious success in the NHL ranks.During his draft year, Williams' excellent skating ability, his solid hockey sense and a consistent scoring touch, he attracted the attention of the Detroit Red Wings, who opted to draft Williams as their first round pick, fourth to be selected overall, in the 1976 NHL draft.The same year, the World Hockey Association's Hartford Whalers drafted Williams 26th overall, in the third round of their draft.