Josh Giddey Sends Bulls a Strong Message After Trade

The newest member of the Chicago Bulls, Josh Giddey spoke to the media for the first time since the shocking trade that sent Alex Caruso to Oklahoma City. The 21-year-old guard was introduced to the fans and he was transparent about what he expects his role to be with the Bulls.

Disclosing details about the trade, Giddey said that he had a conversation with the Thunder GM Sam Presti before the move. After it was made clear to him that they wanted him to come off the bench, Giddey no longer wanted to stay in OKC. Not only did he confirm these reports but Giddey also stated his expectation that he would start for the Bulls.

Josh Giddey Makes Clear of His Desire to Start in Chicago

Giddey pointed out that Chicago didn't explicitly tell him that he would start but it's clear that they wouldn't have traded for him if they didn't know his desire to do so. Plus, Giddey's path to starting is relatively open.

Even though Lonzo Ball is expected to be healthy to start the season, it's hard to see him start immediately. He will likely be on a minute restriction. Plus, there is a chance he will be bought out or traded.

That means that Giddey can just take over the starting role of Alex Caruso. There is obviously a lot of uncertainty surrounding the Bulls roster. What will happen with DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, and Patrick Williams remains to be seen.

Regardless of what the rest of the roster looks like, however, Giddey is a good bet to be the starter at the backcourt next to Coby White. If he isn't starting, the contract extension negotiations with Giddey, who only has one year left on his deal, will be extremely complicated.

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