NBA Execs Debate Josh Giddey $25M-$30M Contract Demand Amid Bulls Stalemate

Josh Giddey and the Chicago Bulls remain in a contract stalemate, with Giddey seeking around $30 million annually, a figure that most NBA executives consider too high given his current performance and market conditions. A survey of 16 NBA executives found that 14 would offer Giddey between $20 million and $25 million per year, reflecting a cautious approach due to new collective bargaining agreement rules and a league-wide preference for contract flexibility. Despite the Bulls having the cap space to meet Giddey's demands, they hold leverage as few other teams are willing or able to offer his asking price. Executives generally agree that Giddey deserves a long-term deal of four years or more, but the financial commitment is significant, and Giddey may need to lower his salary expectations to reach an agreement. The Bulls face pressure to retain Giddey as a key building block following his acquisition in 2024, but uncertainty remains whether he will accept a qualifying offer to play out his current contract or settle for a more modest long-term pact. Overall, the negotiation highlights the balancing act teams face between rewarding young talent and maintaining roster flexibility under evolving NBA financial rules.