The Chicago Bulls are approaching this offseason with caution as they navigate the ongoing Josh Giddey Bulls contract debate. Despite speculation about Giddey’s desired $30 million salary, sources indicate that such a high figure has not been seriously considered by the Bulls, raising questions about his next contract move.
This summer, the Bulls’ activity in free agency has been minimal. They focused primarily on the 2025 NBA draft, selecting Noa Essengue, a forward from Ratiopharm Ulm with the 12th pick, and Lachlan Olbrich, a power forward/center from the Illawarra Hawks, chosen 55th overall. Beyond these draft picks, Chicago’s sole free agency transaction was securing point guard Tre Johnson to a three-year, $24 million contract. This signing adds to an already crowded backcourt that includes starting point guard Josh Giddey, starting shooting guard Coby White, and backup guard Ayo Dosunmu.
The Bulls face a strategic challenge with this group, as Johnson’s role is unclear given the depth at guard. Questions linger on whether the team will invest approximately $8 million annually in a player who may see limited playing time or opt to trade one of their guards to alleviate the logjam.
Josh Giddey, standing 6-foot-8 with notable passing and rebounding skills, entered restricted free agency this summer. While early reports suggested he was pursuing a $30 million yearly contract, Chicago Sports Network’s K.C. Johnson clarified that such figures have not been discussed by the Bulls.
“I don’t have particular numbers, other than to say that Josh Giddey’s $30 million per year price tag – that’s been well documented in media and out there since last fall when the rookie contract extension was discussed – has not ever crossed my radar,”
Johnson said.
“I’ve never heard the Bulls mention that number. So I would not expect Josh Giddey to sign a $30 million deal.”
—K.C. Johnson, Chicago Sports Network
Outside of the Brooklyn Nets, few teams possess the salary cap room to sign Giddey outright. While a sign-and-trade remains a possibility, destinations willing to accommodate his rumored price tag are limited.
In his 70 appearances last season, Giddey delivered solid performances, averaging 14.6 points per game with shooting splits of .465 from the field, .378 from three-point range, and .781 from the free-throw line, alongside 8.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists. His production places him among notable company, joining Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan on an exclusive list of players demonstrating such stat lines.
The uncertainty around Giddey’s contract negotiations reflects broader concerns for the Bulls, who must balance salary commitments while maintaining a competitive roster. How Chicago resolves this contract debate will likely influence the team’s structure and strategy moving forward, especially given the crowded backcourt and limited cap flexibility in the league.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Josh Giddey leave Thunder?
A. People wondered about his future with the Thunder, and Giddey made it clear. He hoped to stay in Oklahoma City for the long haul. However, things didn’t work out that way. “Nothing was set, but he was very emotional during his exit interview,” Bell mentioned.