The Chicago Bulls are having a challenging season, currently sitting at a disappointing 10-15 record, including a dismal 2-9 record in their last 11 games. Their struggles have been particularly evident on the defensive end, where they rank as one of the least effective teams in the league, allowing opponents to dominate the paint. The New Orleans Pelicans have notably exploited this weakness, scoring a staggering 60 points in the paint during their latest matchup and 78 points in their previous game against the Bulls.
Offensively, the team’s issues have compounded, as they have failed to score over 105 points in five of their last seven games. After initially setting the league ablaze with their fast pace and effective ball movement, the Bulls have seen a significant drop in their assist percentage, which has fallen out of the Top 10, and they now hold a troubling 25th place in effective field goal percentage.
One player who has stood out amidst the turmoil is Josh Giddey. As the lead ball-handler, he has not been immune to criticism, but his performance warrants a more nuanced view when considering the collective blame. Giddey has been a bright spot for the Bulls since their promising 6-1 start, currently ranking third in the league in triple-doubles and joining elite company with over 200 assists this season, along with Nikola Jokic and Cade Cunningham.
At just 23 years old, Giddey is averaging career-highs with 20.1 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 8.8 assists while shooting 47.8% from the field and an impressive 39.8% from three-point range. His positive on/off efficiency differential of +5.5 indicates his significant role in the team’s performance this season, which is a marked improvement from his rookie year.
Recently, Giddey was recognized for his efforts as he made ESPN’s list of the Top 25 NBA players under 25, coming in at No. 23, ahead of recent high draft picks like Reed Sheppard and Ausar Thompson. This recognition serves as a silver lining amidst the Bulls’ hiccups, highlighting Giddey as a valuable player for the franchise moving forward. His four-year, $100 million contract signed in the offseason solidifies the Bulls’ investment in his potential.
While questions about Giddey’s overall impact on winning remain, and concerns about the Bulls’ ability to foster his growth persist, there is room for optimism. The strides he has made in efficiency, increased free-throw attempts, and overall productivity suggest he is on the right path. Giddey represents a glimmer of hope for a team in need of a turnaround, offering a hint of sweetness on an otherwise difficult season for the Bulls.