Josh Giddy is 100% real after a 32-point game in a win over the Knicks

Josh Giddei had a breakout performance Friday night, recording 32 points, 10 rebounds, nine assists and a steal to help Chicago Bulls beat the New York Knicks 135-125. The win was Chicago’s fifth straight to open the 2025–26 NBA season. first 5-0 start since Michael Jordan’s 1996–97 campaign.

The 23-year-old guard shot 12-for-21 from the field and 4-for-8 from beyond the arc in 38 minutes. After the game, Giddy spoke to Joel Lorenzi of Athletic and reflected in its current form and mindset with Chicago.

“I’m in a place where I’m wanted,” Giddy said. “I love being here, I’m happy here… that’s what we need as a player – to have the faith of everyone around us. It moves you in the right direction.”

Giddy admitted that clearing up his contract situation also contributed to his strong start, removing distractions and allowing him to focus solely on basketball. He thanked the coaching staff and his teammates for giving him the confidence and freedom to play on and off the ball.

Josh Giddei on what left him feeling like a more complete player, and especially as a guy off the ball.

“Confidence. Being in a place where I’m wanted. I love being here. … that’s what you need as a player.”

“I like it when we have other managers. …Obviously the situation was… pic.twitter.com/KKobOUiP8k

— Joel Lorenzi (@JoelXLorenzi) November 1, 2025

In his second season with the Bulls, Giddy is averaging a career-best 22.0 points, 8.8 rebounds and 8.0 assists per game. He is shooting 48.1% from the field and 45.6% from three in five games while playing 32.6 minutes per contest.

The Bulls’ win over the Knicks highlights Josh Giddy’s growth as an off-ball playmaker

Friday’s win was further evidence of Giddy’s growth as a versatile playmaker, particularly his ability to work alongside other ball players. When asked how he has adjusted to playing with the ball more often compared to his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Giddy responded positively.

“Yes I am and I love it,” he said. “I love when we have other coaches — Tre, Ayo, whoever it is … it takes the pressure off me and allows me to cut, move the ball and space the floor.”

He also acknowledged that his role with the Thunder required different responsibilities due to the presence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who he called “the best player in the world.” Gilgeous-Alexander, MVP of the league last season and MVP of the finalshe dominated Oklahoma City’s offense, naturally relegating Giddy to a supporting role. In Chicago, Giddy noticed that the fit felt more collaborative and balanced, which allowed his game to evolve.

The Bulls’ offense flourished with six players scoring in double figures, but Giddy’s near triple-double stood out as the driving force. With their strong start, Chicago is now among the early leaders in the Eastern Conference standings.

The Bulls (5-0) will face the Knicks (2-3) again on Sunday, Nov. 2, at Madison Square Garden. After that matchup, Chicago returns home to host the Philadelphia 76ers (4-1) on Tuesday, November 4th at 8:00 PM ET.

While Giddy continues to emerge as a central figure in the Bulls’ early season success, his postgame remarks reflect a player who is becoming more comfortable and confident in his surroundings — and controlling the game on both ends of the floor.