Although the team’s season ended earlier than they were hoping for, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey revealed he hopes to stick around for the long haul. In his exit interview, the 21-year-old called Oklahoma City his “home away from home” and talked about being “excited” to play for the team.
“I love it here. This is home away from home. I love everything about this place… I’m excited to be here. I’m excited to be with the guys.”
Giddey is eligible for a contract extension this offseason. However, despite looking like a major core player for the Thunder his first two seasons, the 2023-24 season was a disappointment for Giddey. During the regular season, the Australia native averaged 12.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. All these numbers are career-worsts for Giddey so far. Furthermore, his performance in the playoffs was not any better. In 10 games, Giddey averaged 8.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. After starting the first eight games in the playoffs, the Thunder benched Giddey for Games 5 and 6. Giddey spoke about his struggles and how it has impacted him mentally.
“There’s been a lot. There’s been days where you don’t feel like getting out of bed for a number of reasons. I’m just lucky to have people around me that care and were there for me.“
Oklahoma City Thunder Guard Hoping for Contract Extension
The Thunder Could Trade Josh Giddey
In an article for The Athletic, NBA reporter Anthony Slater suggested the Thunder may move on from Giddey this offseason instead of extending his contract.
“The Thunder don’t necessarily have to decide on Giddey’s future this summer, but the urgency is rising. Next season, he will make a reasonable $8.3 million in the final year of his rookie deal, but he’s extension eligible this summer, which is typically long-term decision time on players…If they go searching for a veteran upgrade, Giddey profiles as a trade candidate if the Thunder compiled a package built around a chunk of their valuable first-rounders. That includes the 12th overall pick in June’s draft, obtained from the Rockets.
Due to the emergence of the Thunder’s new core of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams, the team may not have a long-term role for Giddey. And despite his underwhelming season, Giddey still has value in the league. At 6’8″, Giddey is a great size for a guard. Additionally, his playstyle and versatility allows him to play both forward positions as well. He can play well on both sides of the court and is a good facilitator.
Although he expressed his desire to stay with the Thunder, a change of scenery may be best for Giddey. Going to a team where he can be a starter and focal point in a team’s system could allow him to continue his growth as a player.
The Last Word on Josh Giddey
It will be interesting to see what the Thunder do this offseason. While Giddey is a good, young player, it is clear he does not fit the team’s current system. Trading him as opposed to extending his contract makes sense for both sides.
