Josh Giddey remains one of the most intriguing free agents available.
His future with the Chicago Bulls depends on contract negotiations that have reached a standstill.
The young guard reportedly seeks around $30 million per year. Josh Giddey‘s improved performance last season provides some justification for the substantial request.
Giddey showed notable improvement with Chicago, averaging 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists last season. His enhanced production came after coach Billy Donovan elevated his role.
The Bulls made Giddey their primary ball handler, particularly after trading Zach LaVine to Sacramento. The increased responsibility allowed him to showcase his playmaking abilities.
However, NBA insider Tim MacMahon questions whether Giddey’s skillset translates to team success. He believes there’s a ceiling when building around Giddey as the primary facilitator.
“Josh Giddey, to be productive needs to be the primary ball handler. Right now with the Bulls he’s in a situation where that will be his role,” MacMahon said.
“Now, what’s the ceiling on a team where Josh Giddey is your primary ball handler? I do think there’s a ceiling there. However, all these things, it’s not like it’s something that’s just been discovered,” he added.
The Bulls’ negotiating position stems from their questionable trade decision. Chicago acquired Giddey by sending Alex Caruso to Oklahoma City without receiving any draft picks.
MacMahon highlighted the problematic nature of that transaction. The straight-up trade suggests how much the Bulls valued Giddey.
“You didn’t know this when you traded Alex Caruso straight up. Anyone who knows anything about the NBA says ‘hold on, they didn’t get any pick in that deal, the Bulls got no picks, seriously?’” MacMahon questioned.
“If you valued him straight up that you traded Alex Caruso straight up for him, how are you going to tell him you don’t value him that much during contract negotiations?” he continued.
The trade logic now works against Chicago in contract discussions. They essentially established Giddey’s value through their willingness to part with Caruso.
The Bulls face a challenging roster situation that complicates their decision-making. They traded Lonzo Ball to the Cleveland Cavaliers, creating a significant need for point guard depth.
Yuki Kawamura impressed in Summer League action, but relying on him as a primary option carries considerable risk. His performance level against NBA competition remains uncertain.
If Giddey leaves, Chicago would need to find another reliable point guard option. The free agent market doesn’t offer many appealing alternatives at reasonable prices.
The Bulls must decide whether paying Giddey’s asking price is worth avoiding a larger roster hole. Their limited options may force them to meet his financial expectations despite concerns about his ceiling.
