Josh Giddey’s trade to Chicago has created a domino effect that could see a further slide for the once proud franchise, with star DeMar DeRozan reportedly seeking a new home.
It’s understood the trade for Giddey was the “final straw” that pushed DeRozan to decide he would leave the team in free agency this off-season, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
The 34-year-old had been considering a potential return to the Bulls after three seasons in Chicago, but personnel decisions on the coaching staff left DeRozan in a state of uncertainty.
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However, when the team traded away Alex Caruso, a defensive player with championship pedigree, for Giddey, who came off a disappointing end to the season with the Thunder, it was the trigger for DeRozan, who reportedly realised his future was no longer in Chicago.
Chicago Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan shoots against Washington Wizards center Daniel Gafford. AP
“DeRozan realised he was not in the Bulls’ plans, and he really no longer wanted to be,” the paper reported.
Giddey said he didn’t discuss with the front office if the Bulls were retooling or undergoing a major overhaul.
“In terms of what direction the franchise is going, I haven’t asked any questions,” he said. “I’ve just kind of bought into whatever happens here, happens. And, I’ll probably play my part in helping our team be as good as we can be right from the jump.”
Giddey is coming off a challenging season in which his numbers dropped and he lost his starting job in the playoffs.
Thunder star Josh Giddey attempts to shoot over two defenders in Oklahoma City’s playoffs win over the New Orleans Pelicans. Getty
He goes from a team that went 57-25 to earn the top seed in the Western Conference and reached the conference semi-finals with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren leading the way to one that missed the playoffs for the second straight year.
Giddey said he hasn’t discussed his specific role with the Bulls, though it’s hard to envision him coming off the bench in Chicago if he didn’t want to do it in Oklahoma City.
The Australian was the No.6 overall pick in 2021. He made the All-Rookie second team and is an exceptional passer, with his size also making him a solid rebounder.
Giddey averaged 16.6 points, 7.9 rebounds and 6.2 assists in his second season, but those numbers dropped to 12.3 points, 6.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists in 2023-24.
NBC Chicago reports that DeRozan could be seeking a move to the Lakers, and that the Bulls would be happy to facilitate a sign-and-trade to get him there.