The Pacers are on fire to start 2025, heading into the second half with a solid 63-44 lead over the Chicago Bulls at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. With three straight wins already in the bag, they’re just two-quarters away from making it four. But don’t count out the Bulls yet—can they rally and break up Indiana’s momentum, or will the Pacers seal the deal? We’ll find out soon enough.

But the game wasn’t without drama. Things got heated between Josh Giddey and Andrew Nembhard, both of whom ended up with technical fouls for reasons unclear, as reported by Tony East of Forbes Sports. The refs immediately jumped in to break it up, and Thomas Bryant and Benedict Mathurin were right there, clearly trying to figure out what was going down.

Chicago found themselves behind 29-18 after the first quarter and faced a 100-76 deficit as they entered the final period. On the other hand, the Pacers were cruising with a 34-point lead in the third. Chicago made a desperate push in the fourth, closing the gap to 14 at times. But honestly, trying to match the Pacers’ speed on their home court was always a long shot.

Despite Chicago’s recent rise back into the playoff hunt, this was just too much to handle. So, the Bulls are now 0-2 in the season series, and it’s clear they’ve got work to do.

Giddey played 22 minutes, contributing 5 rebounds and 5 assists, in that time. He added 1 steal, showcasing his defensive awareness, but didn’t record a block. On the offensive side, Giddey scored 9 points. So what does the Bulls guard have to do to improve?

Josh Giddey needs to figure out how to stop being the defense’s target

Giddey is done being the target on defense. For 4 NBA seasons, it’s been his reputation — not his flashy passes or long-range shots, but his struggles to guard. He knows it, and he’s ready to change it. After returning from an ankle sprain, Giddey’s already showing signs of improvement.

“I’m just taking more pride on that side of the ball,” he said. “I want to buy in.”

In his first three seasons with the Thunder, Josh Giddey didn’t think much about defense. He wasn’t great, but he was on a top defensive team. This year, though, in Chicago, he’s been part of a defense that ranks 24th in the league, and he’s the weak link. Fans have been quick to point out the contrast with Alex Caruso, who was traded to acquire Giddey.

It hit a breaking point 7 weeks ago in Cleveland. 4 fouls and 4 turnovers. The Cavs exploited his weaknesses, and Giddey was pulled from the game. He wasn’t just frustrated; he was embarrassed. “Damn,” he thought. It was a turning point. He knew he had to improve.

“I’ve got to make a stand on that side of the ball,” Josh Giddey said.

With his size and quickness, Giddey has the potential. It’s all about consistency and effort. He knows it won’t be perfect, but he’s committed to putting in the effort and work. If he can improve, it could change everything — for his career and the Bulls’ future.