In the time of year when many teams 'embrace the tank,' or rest for the playoffs, the competitive few that remain either crumble or rise to the challenge of participating in playoff basketball. One of those few teams, the Bulls, has quietly been making noise since the All-Star break. With a 15-10 record after the break (17-16 since trading Zach LaVine), Chicago has become a sleeper team next season.
Despite a lack of suitors for Nikola Vucevic (again) at the trade deadline, the veteran has provided consistent production, averaging nearly 19 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and 53 percent shooting (40 percent from three, 80 percent on free throws).
Averaging over 20 points per game, Coby White is in the midst of a career-best season in year six. But first-year Bull Josh Giddey has become the 'new kid on the block' for Chicago, quickly forming one of the backcourt duos with White.
Josh Giddey's untapped potential is on full display for the Chicago Bulls since the All-Star break
The Bulls' offseason acquisition has paid off remarkably, averaging unworldly numbers of late. Since the All-Star break, the fourth-year guard is putting up 21 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists, nearly two steals, and almost one block per game. Giddey is shooting 50 percent (46 percent from three, 81 percent on free throws) and 62 percent true shooting over 19 games and 34 minutes per game.
After reportedly wanting a $30 million per year contract extension, the Bulls missed a golden opportunity to sign Giddey below his market value after his recent surge in performance. Entering restricted free agency this summer, Giddey is eyeing a massive payday, and Chicago may be forced to pay up or lose a franchise cornerstone. As it stands, the Bulls may be left with no other choice.
Giddey has been truly dominant in the second half of the season, proving once again why he was drafted sixth overall in 2021 by Oklahoma City. His unique skill setfor his size makes him a tough cover for teams and a 'jack of all trades' guard. If improved shooting continues, Giddey can become a perennial All-Star and All-NBA player if he can put together these performances over a full season.
While it's unlikely the Bulls' current momentum gains any traction for the play-in or a possible playoff series, it could spark a revival of basketball in one of the league's biggest markets heading into next season. Chicago suddenly sports a fun, young team with tons of potential for the future. That future appears to be held down by their newly acquired 'Swiss Army knife' and his counterparts indefinitely.