Why Josh Giddey Should Sign a $70 Million Contract and What It Means for the Chicago Bulls' Future
As free agency negotiations continue into August, the standoff between
Josh Giddey
and the
Chicago Bulls
remains unresolved. While there's no doubt the franchise wants Giddey as part of its long-term core, the two parties have yet to agree on contract terms.
But with mutual interest in a deal and no sign of sign-and-trade talks elsewhere, the path toward a three-year, $70 million contract may be the compromise both sides need.
Josh Giddey's Contract Stalemate: What's the Holdup?
The 22-year-old Josh Giddey, acquired in a trade for Alex Caruso, was expected to be a foundational piece for the
Chicago Bulls
. However, talks have stalled largely due to Giddey's initial comparisons to high-dollar deals given to guards like:
• Jalen Suggs: 5 years, $150 million (Orlando Magic)
• Immanuel Quickley: 5 years, $162.5 million (Toronto Raptors)
Josh Giddey's camp pointed to those contracts as benchmarks, reportedly seeking upwards of $30 million per year - a number the Bulls are not entertaining.
Instead, Chicago has held firm around the $20 million AAV mark, citing Giddey's ongoing development and the current financial landscape.
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, 'The Bulls traded Alex Caruso for Giddey with the mindset of the Australian guard being a long-term part of their future, and that has not changed.'
What's a Realistic Compromise?
Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (0) celebrates his three point basket against the Los Angeles Lakers with guard Josh Giddey (3) during the second half at United Center. (Image via David Banks-Imagn Images : David Banks-Imagn Images).
Though Giddey isn't likely to get the $30 million annually that his camp desires, a middle ground exists - one that balances the Bulls' financial flexibility with Giddey's future potential.
Proposed Contract Options
Contract Length
Total Value
AAV
Key Clause
3 years
$70 million
$23.3M
Player option in Year 3 (2027–28)
4 years
$100 million
$25M
No options, steady salary structure
The first option gives
Josh Giddey
a short-term opportunity to prove his All-Star ceiling while giving him the flexibility to hit the market again in 2027–28 if his value rises. The second is a longer-term commitment that lands right between both sides' desired salary range.
Why a 3-Year, $70 Million Deal Makes Sense
For Josh Giddey
• Maximizes Short-Term Earnings: An average of $23.3 million annually is a solid step up without fully betting on long-term projections.
• Retains Flexibility: With a player option after Year 2, Giddey can re-enter free agency if his value spikes.
• Proves Value as a Lead Guard: In 70 games last season, Giddey averaged:
• 14.6 points
• 8.1 rebounds
• 7.2 assists
• 37.8% from three
These numbers - especially his improved perimeter shooting - show he's trending upward.
• Aligned with Bulls' Youth Movement: Giddey is emerging as a leader alongside Coby White and rookie Matas Buzelis, giving Chicago a clear path forward.
For the Chicago Bulls
• Maintains Financial Flexibility: With few long-term contracts on the books beyond 2025–26, this deal won't restrict future moves.
• Avoids Overpaying Prematurely: Giddey hasn't reached All-Star status yet, so a deal under $25 million AAV is prudent.
• Retains Key Backcourt Duo: Coby White, who will become an unrestricted free agent next summer, is expected to remain paired with Giddey in Chicago's core plans.
• No Long-Term Risk: If development stalls, the team isn't locked into a bloated long-term deal.
Chicago Bulls' Current Long-Term Commitments Post-2025–26
Player
Status
Patrick Williams
Under contract
Isaac Okoro
Under contract
Jalen Smith
Under contract
Tre Jones
Under contract
Matas Buzelis
Rookie contract
Josh Giddey
Potential new 3-year deal
Why a Deal Before August Ends Is Crucial
There's no animosity between Josh Giddey and the Chicago Bulls - unlike other RFAs like Jonathan Kuminga, Giddey hasn't threatened to accept his qualifying offer or requested a sign-and-trade.
The holdup is purely financial.
Accepting a fair deal now sets Giddey up for both personal development and financial reward later. For the Chicago Bulls, it ensures continuity, structure, and a future built around a promising backcourt.
As free agency progresses, a three-year, $70 million contract with a Year 3 player option appears to be the ideal resolution to end the Giddey-Bulls stalemate. It's a fair compromise that benefits both sides - one that reflects the market, acknowledges Giddey's upside, and respects the Bulls' long-term vision.
Also read:
Jonathan Kuminga's $45 Million Dilemma: The Contract That Could End the Golden State Warriors Standoff
Josh Giddey may not be making $30 million yet, but with this deal, he puts himself in position to earn it later — while helping the Chicago Bulls turn the page toward a promising new era.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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