The Chicago Bulls are coming off yet another mediocre season. It's been tough sledding for the Bulls for a handful of seasons now, and as we approach the 2025-26 season, things look bleak for Chicago.
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Nonetheless, the Bulls have numerous decisions to make as the season approaches, including a big one regarding restricted free agent Josh Giddey.
Giddey is still a free agent with a little over a month to go until the start of the 2025-26 season. NBA insider Brett Siegel from ClutchPoints provided a significant update regarding Giddey and the Bulls.
In his piece, Siegel states that the Bulls are confident in their approach regarding Giddey and his future with the team.
"That is why the Bulls haven't entertained any sign-and-trade talks regarding Giddey this offseason. At no point did the team pursue such an idea, nor did they hold discussions with any team about moving Giddey, sources said.
"Throughout the summer, the long-standing belief from Chicago was that they would reach a long-term deal with the 22-year-old. He clearly wants to return, and the team can't afford to lose Giddey at this juncture.
"However, the Bulls clearly need Giddey more than he needs them, which is why he does hold some leverage in this restricted free agency situation and has held out to this point."
As things stand, the Bulls have offered Giddey a four-year, $80 million deal. However, the Australian guard doesn't appear to be on board with that. Giddey and his camp are seeking a higher average annual value, closer to $30 million annually.
As a restricted free agent, Giddey has little leverage over his destination since the Bulls can simply match any offer, and no team has cap space at this point in the offseason. Right now, though, Chicago needs Giddey more than he needs to be in Chicago.
The 22-year-old is coming off his first season in the Windy City, and it was a stellar one. In 70 games, Giddey averaged 14.6 points per game, 8.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.2 steals while shooting 46.5 percent from the field and 37.8 percent from deep in 30.2 minutes of action.
There has been and will likely continue to be a ton of back and forth between Giddey and his camp and the Bulls. Giddey wants more money, and the Bulls are not budging on the price.
Only time will tell how things will pan out with a month until the start of the preseason.
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