Now a few weeks removed from the start of free agency, the dust has settled following an endless flurry of signings across the league. While things have drastically slowed down, there are still some interesting names on the market. Primarily when it comes to restricted free agency.
Last offseason, the Chicago Bulls pulled off a trade with the OKC Thunder for Alex Caruso. In exchange for the veteran guard, they nabbed a former lottery pick in Josh Giddey. The dynamic playmaker didn’t get to fully showcase his talents on a loaded Thunder roster, but the rebuilding Bulls could give him an opportunity to display his abilities in a featured role.
Heading into what could be a contract year, Giddey had a lot riding on performing well in his new situation. He continued to show what an effective all-around talent he could be, averaging 14.6 PPG, 8.1 RPG, and 7.2 APG.
Since free agency got underway, Giddey has tried to work out a new deal to keep him in Chicago long-term. However, the two sides have been able to come to terms on an agreement. On top of this, no opposing team has decided to sign the former No. 6 pick to an offer sheet.
As a near triple-double threat on a nightly basis, Giddey is a promising young talent at the point guard position. With most of the market dried up, the people at HoopsHype ranked him as the best available free agent.
Great playmaker with very good and creative vision. Good rebounder for his position, too. Not the most efficient scorer, though, including with his jumper and around the basket. Makes an off-ball impact on defense, too. Absolutely exploded in the second half of the season for Chicago, which will undoubtedly help his free-agent outlook this summer.
The Bulls could be waiting for the market to dictate Giddey’s value due to the fact that they can match any offer sheet he signs. This has worked out well for them, as no suitor has come willing to pay top dollar for his services. In the event that Giddey and the Bulls can’t work out a new deal, he’ll have to play out next year under his qualifying offer before becoming an unrestricted free agent next summer.
