The Chicago Bulls have made an impressive mark early in the NBA season, starting 5-0 for the first time since the 1990s, a period synonymous with the legendary Michael Jordan. And guard Josh Giddey is at the forefront. He recently made his best case for selection as career-high 32 points in a marquee match-up performance with the New York Knicks. This victory not only solidifies the Bulls’ strong start but highlights Giddey’s significant contributions to the team.
In the game against the Knicks, Giddey displayed his versatility, recording 10 rebounds and nine assists alongside his scoring feat. In that first half, he put together a spellbinding performance by scoring 21 points. He made four three-pointers, matching his career-high for any half. Giddey’s scoring prowess and playmaking skills are on full display this season. He’s posting 22 points, 8 assists and 8.8 rebounds the first five games. He is already rewriting shooting history with a 48% field goal percentage. Most remarkably, he shoots 45% from deep.
Giddey was effusive in his praise for the chemistry the team displayed and the environment he gets to play in. It’s a place where they want me,” he said, noting the positivity he’s received from his teammates and coaches. His positive sentiment reflects the collective mindset of the Bulls, as he noted, “We all love each other, we all love playing with each other.” That bond has led to success on the court, as six other Bulls join Collins in averaging double digits in scoring.
After the Game 4 upset, head coach Billy Donovan recognized the impact of belief on his team. “The mentality that they believe, which I think is very, very powerful,” he stated, recognizing how confidence can influence performance. Donovan remained grounded about the early success: “Listen, it’s very early. It’s five games and I’m happy with the start that we’ve got… we get a lot more ways to go and we can’t lose sight.”
Even with the Bulls’ wildly successful start to the season, Giddey is squarely focused on getting better every day. “We feel good as a group of where we’re at right now, but there’s a long way to go,” he asserted. As the season unfolds, the Bulls will look to add on to their promising early success all while keeping the positive team atmosphere to drive the organization forward.
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