It’s been a long time since Chicago basketball had this kind of buzz. The Bulls are playing loose, confident, and for the first time in years, the offense feels unpredictable — and that’s largely because of a 23-year-old Australian point forward who’s redefining how this team moves. If the Bulls finish as the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, it won’t be because of a surprise hot streak or a fluke schedule. It’ll be because Josh Giddey turned into the engine that powered Chicago back to relevance.

Today's Hottest Take: Josh Giddey’s All-Around Brilliance is Making the Bulls Contenders

When the Bulls traded for Giddey, there were questions — about his shooting, his fit next to Coby White, and whether he could elevate a roster that had been stuck in mediocrity. But through the first few games of this season, Giddey has erased every doubt.

The numbers back it up. Giddey’s averaging near triple-double territory — 21.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, 9.3 assists — while shooting a career-high 38.5% from three. His passing has unlocked new life in the offense. Matas Buzelis and White are all beneficiaries of his vision, but it’s the pace and trust Giddey brings that’s reshaped Chicago’s identity.

Instead of the half-court stagnation fans have come to dread, possessions now flow like water — Giddey grabs the rebound, pushes the tempo, and finds shooters in rhythm. This quick-trigger transition game has made Chicago 10th in pace and looking for more offensive opportunities

What You Need to Know: Why Josh Giddey Deserves MVP Recognition

This isn’t just about stats — it’s about impact. Every MVP conversation eventually comes down to one question: Whose presence changes everything? For the Bulls, Giddey has been that guy.

He’s made White more efficient, Buzelis more confident as a spot-up shooter. Even Nikola Vučević’s production has surged because Giddey knows exactly how to manipulate defenses before dumping it inside.

Although not known for defense, Giddey’s 6-foot-8 frame and anticipation can make him an effective team defender, switching across positions and helping close out on shooters.

The intangibles like leadership, being calm under pressure and a contagious love for playmaking are what separate him. He is fourth in assist percentage at 40.6%. He’s become the glue that holds Chicago’s revival together. Since March 6, the Bulls have gone 21-8 and look like a competitive team in a wide-open Eastern Conference.

Before You Go: The Bulls Finally Have a True Floor General

There’s something poetic about it — Chicago, a city known for point guard legends, finding its rhythm again through an unselfish, pass-first playmaker. Giddey doesn’t have to score 30 a night to dominate; he makes everyone else better. That’s value, in the purest sense.

So if the Bulls end up holding the top seed in the East, don’t credit luck or schedule strength. Credit the young man who turned chemistry into championship DNA. Giddey isn’t just the Bulls’ most important player — he’s playing like the most valuable player in the NBA.