The Chicago Bulls and Josh Giddey remain far apart in contract negotiations, with no progress toward a sign-and-trade resolution.
K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago reported that the Bulls have a long-term deal on the table worth around $20 million per year. Giddey and his representatives, however, are seeking closer to $30 million annually.
That gap has left both sides at a standstill. While multiple teams have reportedly contacted Giddey’s camp about a possible sign-and-trade, Chicago has not shown any willingness to pursue that route.
NBA insider Jake Fischer previously reported that the Bulls’ initial offer stood at four years, $80 million, well below the guard’s asking price. Rival executives have noted hesitation in approaching Chicago due to the franchise’s stance against sign-and-trade scenarios.
The 22-year-old’s restricted free agency highlights the challenges of the current system. Without a competitive outside offer sheet, Giddey has little leverage to push negotiations closer to his desired range.
His representatives have pointed to recent contracts signed by Jalen Suggs and Jalen Johnson as benchmarks, arguing that Giddey belongs in a similar salary tier. Chicago’s front office, however, has remained cautious about committing to such a figure.
Despite the ongoing impasse, there are indications that Giddey wants to stay in Chicago long-term. He has been seen with teammates during offseason activities, underscoring strong locker room ties despite the unresolved contract situation.
The Bulls’ broader roster plans add another layer of complexity. Fischer linked Chicago’s ongoing interest in Golden State’s Jonathan Kuminga to the team’s salary cap decisions, which could influence how aggressively the front office pursues Giddey’s extension.
One possibility gaining traction is that Giddey could accept his qualifying offer, play out the 2025-26 season, and enter unrestricted free agency in 2026. That path would give him more control over his future while buying the Bulls additional time to evaluate their roster construction.
For now, the Bulls’ position remains unchanged. With training camp approaching, all signs point to Giddey returning under his current status unless a dramatic shift occurs in negotiations.
