Josh Giddey’s Big Payday Looms as Bulls Face Contract Decision
On May 28, 2025, at 9:01 AM, the Chicago Bulls confront a pivotal offseason decision as Josh Giddey, acquired in a controversial 2024 trade for Alex Caruso, nears restricted free agency. Giddey’s expected five-year, $150 million extension has sparked debate among fans, but his late-season surge suggests the Bulls will pay up, balancing leverage with fair value.
Giddey’s Rollercoaster Season
The trade sending Caruso to the Thunder for Giddey drew ire from Bulls fans, given OKC’s draft capital and Giddey’s initial struggles. Early in 2024–25, Giddey’s poor defense, turnovers, and rim-finishing issues led to negative net ratings, with coach Billy Donovan benching him in clutch moments. Post-All-Star break, however, Giddey transformed, shooting 45% from three, 50% from the field, and averaging 21 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds. His 62% true shooting and career-high box plus-minus fueled the Bulls’ best stretch since 2021, per NBA.com.
Contract Context and Market Value
Reports peg Giddey’s target at $30 million annually, a figure critics call steep for a non-All-Star with playoff concerns. Yet, compared to peers like Jalen Suggs (5 years, $150 million) and Jalen Green ($35 million/year), it aligns with the 2021 draft class market. With the NBA salary cap projected at $154.6 million in 2025–26, rising 10% yearly, Giddey’s deal would consume 19% of the cap initially, becoming team-friendly by 2030 when he’s 27, per Spotrac. On X, fans debate, with one posting, “$30M for Giddey? Steep but worth it if he keeps growing. #BullsNation”
Bulls’ Leverage and Strategy
With only the Nets having cap space to offer Giddey, the Bulls hold leverage. Analysts suggest a $25 million annual deal (5 years, $125 million) to preserve flexibility for 2026 cap space. Lowballing risks alienating Giddey, impacting team morale and Chicago’s free-agent appeal. “It’s a business, but relationships matter,” said ESPN’s Zach Lowe.
A Defining Offseason
Giddey’s extension will shape the Bulls’ future alongside Coby White’s role. His late-season leap proves potential, but consistency is key. As fans await July’s outcome, Chicago must balance fiscal prudence with investing in a rising star to chase playoff glory.
