The Oklahoma City Thunder traded Josh Giddey to the Chicago Bulls for Alex Caruso. The Thunder gain a top-tier defender while the Bulls acquire a promising playmaker.
The Thunder sent Giddey, who had asked for a trade, to Chicago after he resisted the team’s plan to use him off the bench. Giddey, a 6’8″ point guard from Australia, struggled last season, losing his starting role in the playoffs. Thunder GM Sam Presti explained that they envisioned Giddey as a reserve to maximize his talents and improve team efficiency, but Giddey was not convinced and sought opportunities elsewhere. Despite the trade, Giddey remained professional throughout the discussions.
Oklahoma City had a successful 57-25 season, clinching the top seed in the Western Conference but ultimately losing to Dallas in the semifinals. Giddey faced off-court issues with unfounded accusations of an improper relationship, leading to investigations that found no evidence of wrongdoing.
Giddey, the 6th overall pick in 2021, made the All-Rookie second team and is set to play for Australia’s national team at the Paris Olympics. Known for his exceptional passing and rebounding abilities, his stats dropped last season to 12.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists from 16.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.2 assists. His performance improved after a trade for Gordon Hayward, averaging 16.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.5 assists in April. However, his playoff time was reduced, starting the second-round series against Dallas before moving to a reserve role.
Caruso, 30, went undrafted in 2016 and played for the Thunder’s G League team. He became a defensive standout with the Lakers and Bulls, averaging 6.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.9 assists over his career, with a career-high 10.1 points last season. Caruso earned All-Defensive First and Second Team honors and the NBA Hustle Award. Presti praised Caruso as a valuable and multi-dimensional player, fitting well with the Thunder’s team ethos. The Thunder also have Cason Wallace, a second-team All-Rookie selection, at point guard.
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