The Chicago Bulls have remained inert after re-signing Tre Jones to a new contract. Fans are left wondering what their next move is. While discussions of trading Coby White or trading for Jonathan Kuminga remain ongoing, the central focus has been on Josh Giddey. Everybody expected the Bulls would look to secure the young point guard with an extension. It felt like the two sides wanted to get something done after the season ended. Giddey would get to be the top guy on the team after spending years as a second fiddle in Oklahoma City. Chicago gets a talented, versatile point guard to build around.
As is always the case, money has complicated things. Giddey has a specific number in mind for his next deal. Knowing they have negotiating leverage thanks to a soft market, the Bulls believe they can get him for cheaper. What we don't know are any details on what is happening. Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times provided an update. Based on his sources, the two sides have been talking consistently. The crux of the issue is that Giddey won't move off his desired number.
Josh Giddey seems content to wait it out for now.
It's not like he doesn't have a strong argument. Jalen Suggs, whom Cowley references, is making $30 million per year from the Orlando Magic. Josh Giddey finished with more points, rebounds, and assists per game last season than Suggs did. Asking for similar money is more than reasonable. The problem is the Bulls don't feel inclined to do that because they don't have to. The market is working in their favor. As cold as it sounds, the smart business decision is to use what leverage you have to get a player locked down on the most team-friendly deal possible. Giddey doesn't like it, which is understandable. Hence the standoff. Still, Chicago has no reason to soften their stance. They're in no danger of losing the point guard to another team. They know that if they stay patient, the conversations should eventually break their way.
