Why Josh Giddey should be a frontrunner for NBA Most Improved Player

Giddey closed out the recent 2024-25 season on a high note, showing signs that he is poised for a breakout year.

When the Chicago Bulls acquired Josh Giddey from Oklahoma City in the 2024 NBA off-season, it was anyone’s guess as to how the rising star would fare in his new environment. He joined a team that already had three established guards in Coby White, Zach LaVine and Ayu Dosunmu, facing an uphill battle to earn minutes. But the 22 year old enjoyed his best season yet, becoming the Bulls’ unequivocal floor general in the latter stages of the season.

One could argue that the catalyst for Giddey’s success was a trade that sent LaVine to Sacramento, while the team acquired Kevin Huerter in exchange. LaVine was a ball-dominant guard averaging in excess of 20 points per game, and his departure certainly freed up some touches for Giddey. Furthermore, Dosunmu had an injury-riddled end to his season, playing just two games after the All-Star Break.

The absences of LaVine and Dosunmu opened the door for Giddey to post career-best numbers after the 2025 NBA All-Star Break, but such an oversimplification fails to encapsulate his growth as a player.