Chicago Bulls News & Analysis: In-Depth Team Coverage

Tag: Josh Giddey

  • The Patrick Williams Contract Was a Miss- Can the Bulls Nail It with Josh Giddey?

    The Patrick Williams Contract Was a Miss- Can the Bulls Nail It with Josh Giddey?

    The Chicago Bulls may not admit it publicly, but they know they messed up with Patrick Williams. Last offseason, they chose not to extend the former No. 4 overall pick, hoping he’d prove his worth in the 2023-24 season. Instead, Williams delivered the same underwhelming performance, suffered a season-ending foot injury, and still landed a five-year, $90 million deal in restricted free agency. Now, as Josh Giddey approaches his own restricted free agency, the Bulls insist they’ve learned their lesson. But have they?

    The Patrick Williams Mistake

    Patrick Williams was supposed to be a cornerstone for the Bulls. Drafted 4th overall in 2020, he showed flashes but never delivered. Last year the Bulls decided to let him play out his contract year before committing long term.

    But Williams didn’t rise to the occasion. He averaged nearly identical stats to his first two seasons, played only 43 games due to injury, and was even benched by head coach Billy Donovan in January. Despite this, the Bulls handed him a $90 million extension before other teams could even make offers in restricted free agency.

    The move left many scratching their heads. Williams’ lack of development and injury concerns made the deal look like a massive overpay—one the Bulls now regret.

    Josh Giddey: The Next Test

    With Josh Giddey set to hit restricted free agency this summer, the Bulls have a chance to prove they’ve learned from the Williams debacle. Giddey, acquired in a trade with the Thunder, has shown promise but also inconsistency.

    After a career-worst year in Oklahoma City, Giddey’s camp reportedly sought a $30 million annual deal last offseason. While his averages of 13.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists look solid on paper, his first season in Chicago has been a mixed bag.

    But Giddey is finishing the season strong. Over his last 4 games he’s averaged 24.3 points, 12.0 rebounds, 8.0 assists, 1.5 steals. This hot streak has raised his stock but the Bulls can’t let it cloud their judgement.

    Have the Bulls Really Learned?

    According to Chicago Sports Network’s K.C. Johnson, the Bulls’ front office claims they’ve learned from the Williams situation. “I’ve been told… that the Bulls have learned from that situation,” Johnson said. “My feeling is if you’re the Bulls, you let Josh Giddey go and get an offer sheet.”

    The smart move would be to let Giddey test the market and match any reasonable offer. With limited cap space across the league, the Bulls could potentially retain him at a team-friendly price. But given their history, there’s no guarantee they’ll stick to the plan.

  • What’s Josh Giddey Worth? Let’s Ask the Bulls Star Himself

    What’s Josh Giddey Worth? Let’s Ask the Bulls Star Himself

    Josh Giddey, the Chicago Bulls’ guard, has been a hot topic this season. With his contract up and free agency around the corner, fans and analysts are asking: What’s Josh Giddey worth? Instead of speculating, let’s hear it from the man himself.

    Josh Giddey’s NBA Career

    Since entering the league, Josh Giddey has proven himself to be a versatile playmaker with high basketball IQ.

    • Rookie Year: Giddey came in as a rookie and showed he could fill up the stat sheet with points, rebounds and assists.
    • Bulls Time: Since joining the Bulls, Giddey has continued to grow and become a key piece of the backcourt.
    • Tools: At 6’8”, Giddey’s size, vision and passing ability make him a special talent in today’s NBA.

    But with his rookie contract running out, the question of his value becomes more and more relevant.

    Giddey’s Take on His Worth

    Asked about his value on the open market Giddey didn’t hesitate.

    • Confidence in His Game: “I think I bring a lot to the table,” Giddey said. “I can play multiple positions, facilitate, rebound and score when needed. I think my versatility is my biggest strength.”
    • Team-First Mentality: Giddey said his focus is on helping the Bulls win but he’s aware of the business side of the NBA. “At the end of the day it’s a business. I just want to play my game and let everything else take care of itself.”
    • Proving His Worth: Giddey knows his performance on the court will determine his value. “I’m not worried about the numbers. I just want to keep improving and showing what I can do.”

    What Would Teams Pay Giddey?

    Giddey’s self assessment is interesting but what would teams actually pay for him?

    • Comparable Contracts: Players with similar skill sets like Lonzo Ball and Kyle Anderson have signed deals in the $15-20 million per year range. Giddey’s youth and potential could get him more.
    • Market Demand: Teams needing a versatile playmaker with size would likely pay up for Giddey. He can impact the game in many ways and is a nice piece.
    • Bulls’ Dilemma: The Chicago Bulls will have to decide if they match any offers Giddey gets in free agency or let him go. His fit with Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan will be a big part of that decision.

    FAQs

    How much is Josh Giddey worth?
    Unknown but $15-20 million+ maybe more

    What does Josh Giddey bring to teams?
    Size, playmaking, versatility. He can score, rebound, facilitate

    Will the Bulls re-sign Josh Giddey?
    It depends on offers and the Bulls’ long term plans. His play this season will be a big part of the decision.

    What are Josh Giddey’s strengths?
    Court vision, passing, rebounding for his position, multi positional

    How’s Josh Giddey doing this season?
    He’s been a consistent contributor for the Bulls, showing his all around game and proving he’s a key piece of the backcourt.