Even though the Chicago Bulls have already invested heavily in Josh Giddey, they might find themselves opening the cheque book again soon.
In an effort to solidify their roster, the Bulls have begun taking decisive action, with one of their most notable moves centred on Giddey.
After plenty of internal debate, the front office eventually settled on a $100 million contract for the 22-year-old star. That is a clear sign they are backing him as their long-term option at point guard.
Initially, there were concerns about whether Giddey warranted that level of investment. Ultimately, though, his age and potential tipped the scales in his favour.
Now, another guard is seeking a big deal, and the Bulls board must think carefully about it.
Coby White is reportedly looking to cash in during his next contract, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer.
The guard is aiming for a figure higher than the $30 million per year that Chicago agreed to pay Josh Giddey in their recent deal.
“Coby White, to my understanding, is going to be eligible for more money as a free agent next year,” Fischer said.
“The talk around the league has already been that Coby White is going to be seeking even north of the $30 million average annual value that Josh Giddey has been. I’m not expecting an extension for Coby White at this juncture.”
White is audacious to demand more than Giddey, but his recent performance validates his request.
The following table shows how Coby White and Josh Giddey’s scoring stats have looked over the past two NBA campaigns:
Season | Josh Giddey | Coby White |
2023-24 | 12.3 | 19.1 |
2024-25 | 14.6 | 20.4 |
Over the past two seasons, White has significantly outscored the Australian. In fact, Giddey’s move to Chicago appears to have boosted White’s scoring averages.
While the North Carolina native has become more of a scorer, Giddey offers a more well-rounded game, with his playmaking and defensive abilities standing out.
If White wants to match or surpass Giddey’s salary next season, he will need to show progress in those other areas of his game.
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