I like Josh Giddey and what he brings to an NBA team. I am also in favor of this move by OKC’s GM, Sam Presti, to trade him away. I do think, in time, he will become an All-star in the league, as of his play making and passing skills. His 6’9 frame has also made him a better than average rebounder for a guard/wing. At age 21, with three years in the Association as a starter for OKC (210 games, 210 starts, regular season), he has shown much as one of the best young players. With that, Josh Giddey did not fit with this current Thunder team, and his trade to Chicago, straight-up with Alex Caruso, will benefit both teams and especially the players. Giddey, a fan favorite, will move into the starting point guard spot for the Bulls.
Joshua Giddey ▪ Twitter: joshgiddey ▪ Instagram: joshgiddey
(SLOB Wizard, Himothee Chalamet, Wizard of Oz, Vanilla Magic)
Position: Shooting Guard, Power Forward, and Small Forward ▪ Shoots: Right
6-8, 210lb (203cm, 95kg)
Giddey’s stats in OKC, 3 years:
Games: 210 (210 starts); PPG: 13.9; RPG: 7.3; APG: 5.7; FGP: 46.4; 3pp: 31.0
As a Thunder player, Giddey was considered a better than average passer and rebounder for his natural position as point guard. His point guard skills started to decline as his time spent at the point was depleted, as of other Thunder players. At a young age of 21, his upside is considered high, but with the Thunder, his minutes as the PG hurt his development at that position. At Chicago, he becomes their PG and should flourish. Defensively, Giddey would be rated in the lower third, not conducive to long term success as a defender. But OKC will miss his rebounding and his pinpoint passing, especially on set inbounds plays, where he is the best in the league.
Alex Michael Caruso ▪ Twitter: ACFresh21 ▪ Instagram: acfresh21
(Bald Mamba, Bald Eagle, Carushow, GOAT, A.C., White Mamba 2.0, The Accountant)
Position: Point Guard and Shooting Guard ▪ Shoots: Right
6-5, 186lb (196cm, 84kg)
Caruso’s NBA stats, 7 seasons:
Games: 363 (130 starts); PPG: 6.8; RPG: 2.9; APG: 2.9; FGP 44.0; 3pp: 38.0
One NBA title and two All-NBA defensive teams in 7 seasons. A highly wanted role player that fits for the Thunder, led the NBA in steals in 2023-2024. Played for Coach Daignault on the OKC Blue before he went to the Lakers. A tremendous team player, not a high usage one, Caruso had been a target for other teams before the trade to the Thunder. Will fit in as a top 6th man for the Thunder, does not rob the other players of shots, but is an outstanding 3 point shooter. Can guard bigger players, giving OKC the best defensive team in the league with his inclusion. A line-up of Caruso, Holmgrem, Dort, Jalen Williams, and Wallace will cause severe trouble for opposing teams. Yes, a small lineup, but a defensive nightmare for others.
Photo Credits: NBA
