Josh Giddey signs with Bulls in $100M deal, poised to become franchise cornerstone
After an extended negotiation period, Josh Giddey and the Chicago Bulls have reached an agreement on a lucrative four-year, $100 million contract. The Australian point guard had initially aimed for an annual salary of approximately $30 million, while the Bulls countered with an offer totaling $80 million over four years. Ultimately, both sides found common ground, settling on a deal that averages $25 million per year.
Signing Delayed for Personal Touch
Despite the agreement on terms, Giddey has yet to officially sign the contract. In a nod to tradition and personal significance, he has opted to finalize the deal in person. According to insights from a Chicago Bulls insider, Giddey is making the journey from Australia to Chicago specifically to put pen to paper at the Advocate Center. “He’s technically only agreed to terms; he has not signed the contract yet,” the insider noted. “He wants to do it in person, and he’s on his way in from Australia. He plans to be in the Advocate Center in a couple of days to sign, which is always a nice touch.”
A New Chapter for the Bulls
Once the contract is signed, Giddey will take on the mantle of the Bulls’ highest-paid player, becoming a pivotal figure in the franchise’s rebuilding efforts. He joins fellow young talents Matas Buzelis and No. 12 overall draft pick Noa Essengue as they collectively aim to revitalize the team.
Giddey’s journey to Chicago began with a trade from the Oklahoma City Thunder in June 2024. In his first season with the Bulls, he showcased his potential, averaging 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.2 steals across 70 regular-season games, all while playing around 30.2 minutes per night. His performance notably surged after the All-Star break, where he averaged 21.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, 9.3 assists, and 1.5 steals over 19 games, impressively shooting 45.7 percent from three-point range during this stretch.
Looking Ahead
As he prepares to build on a strong finish to the 2024-25 season, Giddey will be vital as the Bulls strive to break their postseason drought, which dates back to the 2021-22 season. With his talent and emerging leadership, the Bulls are hopeful that Giddey can help guide them back to playoff contention.
