One major comeback and three out of five wins. This is what the Chicago Bulls‘ 2024 preseason looked like. Despite good results and Lonzo Ball’s anticipated return, the team faces a dilemma. It’s the team’s rookie, Josh Giddey, who is looking for a pay raise. This comes amid concerns about the uncertain futures of veterans Lonzo Ball and Zach LaVine, raising questions about whether the Bulls will consider Giddey’s request.

Currently, the Bulls pay around $8 Million to the Australian guard. And according to some critics, the team is paying a lot for a hooper whose performance has been inconsistent. Nonetheless, the 22-year-old is looking to acquire a $22M pay raise. This means Giddey is eyeing a $30 million extension at the Chicago Bulls.

NBA Insider Jake Fischer reported that Immanuel Quickley’s 5-year, $175M deal with the Toronto Raptors this past summer has set a benchmark for young guards in the NBA. Thus, “Josh Giddey is said to be seeking at least $30 million in AAV in his next deal, sources said, although the Bulls appear more keen on evaluating Giddey through this first season in Chicago before committing that type of money to the Australian playmaker.”

But, as we know, saying things is easier than doing them, so the Chicago Bulls must evaluate a lot before diving into the deal. Let’s first take a quick recap of Josh Giddey’s Bulls selection. The OKC Thunder traded him for Alex Caruso. The Thunder got a great deal since they didn’t have to give up any draft picks to match the player’s value.

In three seasons with the Thunder, the 6’8″ playmaker has demonstrated strong rebounding and passing skills, averaging 5.7 assists per game. However, concerns about his shooting (31% from three), defense, and ability to draw fouls may make the Bulls hesitant to engage in extension talks. While Giddey is versatile, the uncertainty surrounding his shooting improvement complicates the Bulls’ decision on a potential extension.

On the other hand, the future of Zach LaVine and Lonzo Ball looks oddly bleak with the squad. While the latter made his comeback after three years, the former is under the Lakers’ radar. So, will the Chicago Bulls lose their important wingmen?

Bulls navigate uncertainty as two players face unclear futures

The Los Angeles Lakers have had a rather uninspired roster for the past couple of years. As a result, the front office is seeking new and reliable NBA talent to don the Purple and Gold jersey. One of the top names is their former star Kyle Kuzma who is currently with the Washington Wizards. The other choice is believed to be the Chicago Bulls’ Zach LaVine. According to league insider Anthony Irwin, the Bulls SG is once again being linked to his hometown team.

Moreover, LaVine’s preseason records have been pretty impressive too! He scored a solid 28 points against the Memphis Grizzlies but unfortunately lost the game. But, the crucial points he collected in the tight match were solid. Meanwhile, Lonzo Ball‘s return to the court after three years is one of the best news for the Chicago Bulls. However, the 1,006 days spent on rehab and recovery may raise concerns for the team.

Although it took Ball just 43 seconds to demonstrate to the crowd that he hasn’t lost his touch, some may wonder if the lingering effects of his past knee issues could hinder him down the line. Well, there are endless possibilities, but the Bulls are happy to have Ball back on the court. And it doesn’t look like they’re looking forward to trading him. However, the team might put him on minutes restrictions for the first few games as Chicago wouldn’t prefer rushing Lonzo.

Thus, the Chicago Bulls have quite a lot on their plate ahead of their 2024/25 regular season slate strikes off. They are surely going to look through Josh Giddey’s performance before giving him his $22M raise. Meanwhile, the tricky situation with Zach LaVine and the doubts on Lonzo Balls’ efficiency will also be tested. Therefore, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the new season will be full of drama and action. So, watch out for more!