Bulls intensify negotiations with $90M offer for Josh Giddey
As the Chicago Bulls gear up for the upcoming season, the clock is ticking on their negotiations with restricted free agent Josh Giddey. While a long-term deal remains elusive, the Bulls’ latest offer could represent a significant step forward as training camp approaches.
Initial Demands and Chicago’s Leverage
Giddey, who has been eyeing a salary in the $30 million range, initially faced a challenging market with few teams willing to meet his demands. Chicago reportedly presented him with a four-year, $80 million contract, positioning themselves as frontrunners in the negotiation process. However, with the season on the horizon and no agreement in sight, the urgency within the Bulls organization to secure Giddey for the long haul is palpable.
Adding complexity to the situation is the recent decision of Cam Thomas to accept a qualifying offer worth $5.9 million from the Brooklyn Nets. This move raises the stakes for Giddey, who has an $11.1 million qualifying offer on the table. Should he opt for this route, it would not only provide him with a safety net but also grant him a no-trade clause ahead of unrestricted free agency next offseason.
Increased Offer Reflects Commitment
Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints recently shed light on the evolving dynamics of the restricted free agent market, noting that the Bulls have escalated their offer to Giddey. He reported that, “Although they held firm on their offer of around $20 million per season, the Bulls have recently increased their proposed contract to try and end this stalemate.” League sources indicate that the new offer is in the range of $85 million to $90 million over four years, a clear signal of Chicago’s commitment to Giddey’s future.
Giddey’s Rising Stock
Acquired from the Oklahoma City Thunder in June 2024, Giddey made a notable impact in his first season with the Bulls. In over 70 regular-season games, he posted averages of 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.2 steals, while also achieving a career-high 37.8 percent shooting from beyond the arc. His performance only improved post-All-Star break, where he excelled with averages of 21.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 9.3 assists in the final stretch of the season, all while maintaining an impressive shooting percentage of 50.0 from the field and 45.7 from three-point range.
Looking Ahead
With Giddey clearly positioned as a key player in the Bulls’ long-term strategy, the stakes are high. Allowing him to enter unrestricted free agency could be a costly misstep for the franchise. The increased offer reflects Chicago’s commitment to reaching an agreement that aligns with Giddey’s burgeoning talent and potential. As the deadline draws near, the Bulls are clearly motivated to find common ground and secure their rising star.
