The Chicago Bulls danced around it for longer than expected but they finally came to an agreement with breakout point guard Josh Giddey. The $100 million deal will see Giddey remain in the Windy City for another four seasons.
Given his performance in the 2024-2025 season, retaining Giddey's services was the smartest move the Bulls could have made. He is could be a cornerstone of future success they can build around.
For Sacramento Kings fans, it's not hard to wonder what might have been. Giddey could have been that guy for their team, one who might have changed their fortunes.
Josh Giddey's makes a leap
Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Giddey's first got a taste of pro basketball playing in the NBL for the Adelaide 36ers. He quickly made the move to the NBA, playing with the Oklahoma City Thunder for his first three seasons.
As NBA fans know all too well, OKC is absolutely stacked with young, talented players. This made it difficult for Giddey to stand out. He was traded to the Bulls in a move that saw veteran NBA Champion and tenacious player Alex Caruso head to Oklahoma.
The Bulls trade could not have worked out better for Giddey. It was the showcase he needed. In particular, he seemed to vibe with Coby White and rookie Mata Buzelis. After watching what happened in one season, Giddey staying on the Bulls was the only move.
A missed opportunity for the Kings
Keeping in mind Giddey was a restricted free agent, there was some uncertainty as to his status. Right up until the new contract was signed, there was a real chance he would leave the Bulls.
For the Kings, Giddey could have been the young point guard they needed to fill the De'Aaron Fox vacancy. Josh Giddey obviously has the skill, talent, and drive to succeed. Plus, he's only 22, meaning he has plenty of time to develop into his prime basketball years.
From the perspective of the Chicago bulls, re-signing Giddey was the right choice to make. This sets them up for future success. But it's not hard to see how good a fit Giddey would have been alongside Keegan Murray and Domantas Sabonis as the Kings envision their own future.