Oklahoma City Thunder swingman Josh Giddey can contribute in practically all departments, a luxury that head coach Mark Daigneault has right now.
The Thunder are on a six-game winning streak, although Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a big reason why, via ESPN. Giddey has been there to provide support, although critics feel that he can do better.
The 6-foot-8 guard/forward has averaged 12.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in 27.2 minutes of action in 15 games for the Thunder, per Basketball-Reference. While the numbers seem acceptable for a third-year player, some believe he can do more and justify the roughly $14.8 million he will get until 2025.
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The Thunder exercised their team option on Giddey for his current performance. But if the Thunder are to keep him longer, the Australian needs to step up his game.
Here are some things the Thunder may consider as far as Josh Giddey is concerned.
Is Josh Giddey a potential All-Star?
Given his numbers, the Thunder will need to assess if Giddey is someone who can rank among the best in the NBA. That may take time, although the 21-year-old player is on the right track.
After a promising 2022-23 season, however, Giddey's production has taken a dip. After averaging 16.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.2 assists in 76 regular season games, his numbers are down in the current season.
Giddey's stats could improve as the season goes along. However, a recent expose may become a distraction, another point the Thunder may consider. This is about the viral photos of him being with underage girls, per Marca.com.
Can Josh Giddey focus on playing basketball
Some players have personal sides that most may never understand. However, there is a fine line that the league and society will accept.
In the case of the Josh Giddey explicit photos, the 21-year-old could be in hot water. This was after a certain sophomore girl named Livv Cook claimed that she had sexual intercourse with the Thunder player.
An anonymous source put up the post, which has since been taken down, but some sites were able to take a screenshot of it.
Can Giddey co-exist with Gilgeous-Alexander?
There is no question that the top dog for the Thunder right now is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Giddey is blending in well with his role behind him but still needs to improve his numbers.
With the talent he has proven, the Thunder could explore trade possibilities in the future. The 6th overall pick of the 2021 NBA Draft could get that if he finds a team where he can play more and be given heavier responsibilities, Sporting News suggested.
But the big question is which team could take a chance on Giddey. His frame and talent can undoubtedly be useful to NBA teams looking for a player who can contribute in almost all departments.
It is possible for Giddey, although he needs to keep his off-court activities in check. That viral post has put him in an unfortunate predicament, and it will be interesting if this tarnishes his current NBA run.
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