The Bulls wanted to take a “methodical” approach in building their roster this offseason, and they weren’t kidding.
With NBA teams allowed to officially announce free-agent signings and deals Sunday, the Bulls made the re-signing of Tre Jones and the Lonzo Ball trade to the Cavaliers for Isaac Okoro official, leaving one unanswered question: What about restricted free agent Josh Giddey?
A source told the Sun-Times that the Bulls and Giddey’s camp were having positive discussions, but Giddey still would like to get the Jalen Suggs contract of $30 million per year.
Suggs was selected fifth overall in the 2021 draft by the Magic, and Giddey was taken at No. 6. The Magic gave their floor general a five-year, $150.5 million extension last offseason. Both players have had some growing pains and setbacks along the way, but Giddey and his representation feel that’s where he also should be slotted.
That was the number Giddey threw out at the Bulls last fall, and the team opted to wait. A stellar second half of the season, however, played in his favor.
He can receive an offer from another team, and the Bulls would have the option to match it, but with little free money floating around, it’s a bad summer to be testing the market.
As for what the Bulls did get accomplished: Jones stays at three years and
$24 million, and Okoro will have an opportunity to reboot his career while staying in the Central Division.
