The Chicago Bulls are facing an uphill battle in their quest to make the playoffs this year. Although they haven’t fully committed to a much-needed rebuild, this season has nevertheless served as a developmental period for some of their promising young talents.
One standout who has truly shone is Josh Giddey, especially in the absence of Zach LaVine. As highlighted by Legion Hoops, the Australian guard has been on a tear following the All-Star break, turning heads with his impressive performances.
Since then, Giddey has been averaging an impressive 22.4 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game. His recent stats illustrate his growing prowess and confidence on the court.
Originally drafted as the number six pick, Giddey had been known for his ability to fill the stat sheet, consistently flirting with a triple-double performance. However, he hadn’t quite hit his stride in Chicago until now.
It seems that Giddey thrives when he has the ball more frequently, which wasn’t necessarily the case when playing alongside other dominant players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander back in Oklahoma City or with LaVine. With LaVine no longer in the picture, Giddey is taking full advantage of his increased responsibility, finding his rhythm, and showcasing what he can do when given the reins.
While the Bulls might not be immediate contenders just yet, there’s hope on the horizon. With Matas Buzelis gradually developing and another first-round pick in their pocket, the team could build a strong foundation around Giddey and its young core.
Giddey’s shooting consistency remains an area for improvement, but it’s great to see him adopting a more assertive role as both a scorer and facilitator. This newly found aggressiveness not only benefits him but also sets a positive tone for the future of the team.
