Josh Giddey is quietly putting together a career year with the Chicago Bulls. The 23-year-old guard is averaging 19.2 points and 9.0 assists per game this season, revealing a stunning versatility shift. This is a breakout moment nobody predicted.
🔥 Quick Facts
- 2025-26 Scoring: Averaging 19.2 points per game, career-high for a full season with the Bulls
- Assist Leader: Recording 9.0 assists per game, making him elite playmaker on Chicago’s roster
- Career High Game: Scored 32 points with 10 rebounds and 9 assists vs Knicks on October 31
- Contract Status: Signed exclusive 4-year, $100 million extension with Bulls in September 2025
From Bench Role To Primary Scorer
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Giddey’s transformation has been dramatic since joining Chicago. His scoring output increased significantly compared to his Oklahoma City years, where he averaged between 12.3 and 16.6 points. The 6-foot-8 guard now operates as Denver’s offensive engine alongside Nikola Vucevic.
His ball-handling improvements shine through in high-efficiency shooting. Giddey’s field goal percentage sits at 46.6 percent, while his three-point stroke has improved to 38.6 percent. This represents a massive jump from previous seasons, signaling confidence in his expanded role.
The Assist Renaissance
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Giddey’s passing game remains his signature strength. Averaging 9.0 assists per game makes him fourth in the NBA for distribution this season, trailing only Nikola Jokic, Cade Cunningham, and Luka Doncic. His court vision has matured into something special.
The assist-turnover ratio of 2.5-to-1 shows smarter decision-making. Giddey’s ability to facilitate while maintaining scoring consistency sets him apart from typical young guards. Double-doubles have become routine for this electric facilitator.
Statistical Breakdown: A Player Evolved
| Category | 2024-25 | 2025-26 |
| Points Per Game | 14.6 PPG | 19.2 PPG |
| Assists Per Game | 7.2 APG | 9.0 APG |
| Field Goal % | 46.5% | 46.6% |
| Three-Point % | 37.8% | 38.6% |
The statistical jump tells a compelling story. Giddey improved his scoring by 31 percent while maintaining elite shooting efficiency. Remarkably, his three-point volume surged from 1.5 to 1.9 attempts per game, showing expanded offensive usage.
Rebounding consistency remains strong at 8.9 rebounds per game. This complete skill set makes Giddey one of basketball’s most well-rounded guards entering the second half of this emerging season.
“Josh Giddey is one of two players in the NBA averaging 19 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game this season.”
— Chicago Bulls Official Team, January 2026
MVP Conversation Starting To Build
Giddey’s breakthrough has sparked whispers about All-Star inclusion and potential All-NBA consideration. Voters previously overlooked his all-around excellence, but the numbers are undeniable now. His balanced scoring combined with elite-level playmaking creates a rare statistical profile.
The Bulls organization clearly believes in Giddey’s ceiling, evident from that $100 million contract extension last September. Chicago’s front office positioned him as the franchise cornerstone alongside Vucevic for years to come. Is an MVP run possible? The narrative is definitely shifting in his favor.
What Should Fans Watch For In The Second Half?
Giddey’s trajectory becomes crucial from here forward. Will he maintain these elite scoring numbers or plateau as defenses adjust? The Chicago media and national sports world must monitor his true shooting percentage and playoff readiness.
The opportunity is real for Giddey to stake his claim among basketball’s most dynamic young displayers. Triple-doubles are becoming almost expected. Can the Bulls climb the Eastern Conference standings with Giddey playing at this elite level? The second half will define his entire season legacy.
Sources
- ESPN – Complete 2025-26 season statistics and career averages for Josh Giddey
- NBA.com – Official league statistics and player performance data
- Chicago Bulls Official – Team announcements regarding Giddey’s season performance
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.