Josh Giddey Sends Strong Message to Bulls After Trade

Chicago Bulls newest addition Josh Giddey spoke to the media for the first time since the shocking trade that sent Alex Caruso to Oklahoma City. The 21-year-old guard was introduced to fans and he was transparent about what he expects from his role with the Bulls.

Divulging details of the trade, Giddey said he had a conversation with Thunder general manager Sam Presti before the move. After it was made clear to him that they wanted him off the bench, Giddey no longer wanted to stay in OKC. Not only did he confirm these reports, but Giddey also said he hoped he would start for the Bulls.

Josh Giddey confirms he wanted to start for Thunder and he praises Sam Presti for being honest with him about his role moving forward. Giddey wasn’t eager to come off the bench.

Giddey appears to expect to start for the Bulls, even if they haven’t told him that directly.

-Cody Westerlund (@CodyWesterlund) June 25, 2024

Giddey pointed out that Chicago didn’t explicitly tell him he would start, but it’s clear they wouldn’t have traded for him if they didn’t know of his desire to do so. Additionally, the path to leaving Giddey is relatively open.

Even though Lonzo Ball should be healthy to start the season, it’s hard to see him starting right away. He will likely be subject to a one-minute restriction. Additionally, it is possible that it will be repurchased or exchanged.

This means Giddey can simply take over Alex Caruso’s starting role. There is obviously a lot of uncertainty surrounding the Bulls roster. What will happen with DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine and Patrick Williams remains to be seen.

However, no matter what the rest of the roster looks like, Giddey is a good bet to be the starter in the backcourt alongside Coby White. If he doesn’t start, contract extension negotiations with Giddey, who only has one year left on his contract, will be extremely complicated.

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