It is easy to overlook leverage in the NBA, but that is exactly what the Brooklyn Nets are holding this summer which is a ton of cap space, draft capital and if they want they have an open lane to go after a rising star like Josh Giddey. Yes, he is a restricted free agent, and yes, the Bulls can match any offer. But that does not close the door. It just makes the Nets’ situation even more intriguing because with smart cap management and a long-term outlook, Brooklyn can afford to be aggressive, and if they choose to be, Giddey should definitely be near the top of their list.
At just 22 years old, Giddey flashed serious potential in Chicago this past season. After the Bulls cleared the way with the Zach LaVine trade to the Sacramento Kings, Giddey was finally given the reins, and he delivered, taking full advantage of the opportunity. Over his final 20 games, he averaged 21.4 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 9.1 assists, shooting close to 50% from the floor. Showing proof that he is a young player turning a corner.
Can Giddey be the guy?
The Nets, still searching for a cornerstone in their post-superstar era, should see Giddey as a near-perfect fit. He is tall for his position, skilled, unselfish, and plays with an edge. Not only that Giddey is extremely talented when it comes to playmaking as he is a connector as well as a tempo-setter. The kind of player who can help shape a team’s identity. Think Tyrese Haliburton on the Indiana Pacers, someone who makes everything flow.
Now, Chicago has decisions to make. They have got Ayo Dosunmu and Coby White playing big roles. Giddey’s skill set, while valuable, might not be the cleanest fit with that duo long-term. That is where Brooklyn can pounce, by forcing the Bulls into a difficult choice with a front-loaded, aggressive offer that shows just how serious they are.
What is most exciting?
A move like this would not be considered desperation. It would be the absolute right call. Brooklyn has done the hard work which is collecting assets, staying flexible, and not overcommitting. Giddey represents a rare chance to lock in a young, high-upside lead guard without giving up core draft capital.
Getting him will not be easy, but it is doable.
If general manager Sean Marks and the front office believe Giddey is the guy, they do not need to wait for a perfect scenario to present itself, they can make their move now. In a league where everything hinges on timing, playing it safe can be the boldest mistake. The Nets have the resources. All that is left is the will to act, and for a star like Giddey I personally think they need to act fast.