Josh Giddey Aims to Secure Closing Role with Bulls Amid Trade Rumors

LOS ANGELES — Josh Giddey, the Chicago Bulls‘ point guard, is determined to solidify his place in the team’s closing lineup after receiving specific feedback from head coach Billy Donovan. Following an off-day practice at USC on Wednesday, Giddey acknowledged Donovan’s list of improvements needed to earn more minutes in critical game moments.

“Yes,” Giddey said without hesitation when asked about improving his defense. “Yep,” he added regarding ball security. On creating shots for teammates, a skill Donovan praised after Monday’s victory against the Clippers, Giddey responded, “Yeah, no doubt.”

Giddey, who joined the Bulls last offseason, has often been excluded from the closing lineup during tight games, a situation he rarely faced during his time in Australia or earlier in his NBA career with the Oklahoma City Thunder. However, his recent performances have shown promise, particularly on the defensive end, which Donovan highlighted as a key factor in earning trust.

“He’s probably working towards that,” Donovan said when asked if Giddey could see more closing minutes. “He’s given me a lot of confidence. The defense has ticked up, it’s gotten better there. And he’s gotten better at making the guys on the court better in terms of generating open looks for them.”

Despite the Bulls’ ongoing trade rumors, Giddey appears to be a part of the team’s long-term plans. As a restricted free agent, the Bulls can match any offer he receives, but Giddey hopes to make his case on the court before the offseason. “I’m very happy here,” Giddey said. “I love the players, the coaches, everyone has been great here. I’d be lying if I said I never think about it. Every player in the country thinks about it, but you can’t let it impact the way you play. It’s a business.”

Giddey’s focus remains on contributing to the team’s success and proving his value in high-pressure situations. “The contract will be taken care of at the end of the year, whatever it is, how long it is, where it is? It’s kind of out of my hands by then, so just play the season and do my best,” he said.