Josh Giddey, anointed king of the triple double… He the third Chicago Bull of any kind to accomplish this feat, joining Hall of Fame icons Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. The 22-year-old’s remarkable performance has propelled the Bulls into the NBA play-in tournament, where they prepare to face the Miami Heat in a crucial home game.
On the year, Giddey has incredibly-sustained averages of 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game. Since the All-Star break that’s only risen even higher. Over the previous 19 games, Giddey’s twitched an All-Star-level act. He’s averaging a triple-double at 21.2 points, 10.7 rebounds and 9.3 assists, showing he can change the game in almost every facet.
In any case, Coach Billy Donovan is experiencing what he calls “high-level optimism” regarding Giddey’s availability for Sunday’s matchup with the Heat. This is a major development after the young guard missed the final regular-season game in Philadelphia with a right wrist sprain. Chicago was impressive in their most recent win against the Washington Wizards, winning 119-89. It’s safe to say that Giddey’s absence was definitely felt during Friday night’s contest.
Giddey’s contributions have been huge for the Bulls this season. He certainly had a gem worthy of the Hall on Friday against the Miami Heat. He led all players with a huge triple-double — 28 points, 16 rebounds and 11 assists — as his team rolled to a 119-111 win. Perusals like these have further confirmed that he is one of the deeper, potential intrigue players to watch when the action starts in the play-in tournament.
The Bulls face a critical path ahead. If they do beat the Heat, they’ll go on to face the loser of the play in game between the Orlando Magic and Atlanta Hawks. This win was as big as they come for them to make the playoffs. Giddey’s impact on the court is critical to their hopes of making it any further.
It’s the uniqueness of Giddey’s performance this season that really distinguishes him. He’s just the third player ever to join LeBron James and Nikola Jokic in the incredibly impressive club of 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, and 500 assists, drawing eyes and respect from across the league. What he can add to play-in game against Miami is huge for the Bulls’ playoff hopes.
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