Josh Giddey, a restricted free agent, has been noticeably absent from the Chicago Bulls’ Summer League games despite being present in Las Vegas over the past week, per Hoops Rumors.
However, according to Julia Poe of The Chicago Tribune, there is no indication that negotiations between Giddey’s camp and the Bulls have turned hostile or confrontational.
Jamal Collier of ESPN adds that Giddey recently had a sit-down lunch with Bulls head coach Billy Donovan in Las Vegas, suggesting that communication remains open.
Additionally, the Australian point guard’s agent is expected to hold discussions with team executives sometime during the week.
While talks are ongoing, Poe points out that the two sides are currently far apart in terms of financial expectations.
Giddey is reportedly looking for a deal that would pay him around $30 million per season, while the Bulls are aiming for something closer to $20 million annually. Bridging that $10 million gap will likely require time and compromise.
Despite the disparity in their current positions, there is optimism that a deal will eventually be reached. Sources have told Collier that both parties are expected to find common ground and finalize a contract.
Poe also reports hearing similarly positive expectations from her sources, suggesting that while negotiations may not be easy, a resolution appears inevitable.
