Giddey has the option to bet on himself by accepting his $11.1 million qualifying offer, playing out the 2025-26 campaign before hitting unrestricted free agency next summer. However, that route would leave Chicago at risk of losing the 6-foot-8 guard for nothing after acquiring him in exchange for Alex Caruso in June 2024.

While the sides remain stuck in the sand on the terms for a contract extension for the restricted free agent, it's not even August yet in what is being called "a negotiation."

While Chicago Bulls restricted free agent Josh Giddey continues to wait for a new contract, a majority of NBA executives polled by The Athletic's Fred Katz and Joel Lorenzi believe he should be headed for a healthy payday.