Josh Giddey makes opinion clear on "SLOB Wizard" nickname
After a drama-filled 2024 season, Josh Giddey is now embarking on a new journey in his career with the Chicago Bulls. As training camp goes on, the former lottery pick has given his thoughts on one of his nicknames.
Since entering the league, Giddey's playmaking is one area of his game that has shined the most. He's especially been good as an inbound passer, resulting in him being dubbed the "SLOB Wizard." SLOB is short for sideline out of bounds, a spot where Giddey was deployed regularly with the OKC Thunder.
While speaking with Bulls reporters, Josh Giddey was asked his thoughts on the "SLOB Wizard" name.
"I wouldn't say I'm on board with it," Giddy said. "I acknowledge it. I understand what he was trying to say, but he could have used a different word."
Giddey, who turns 22 next week, spent the first three years of his career with the Thunder. His playing time took a slight dip in 2024, which resulted in his production taking a step back as well. Giddey played in 82 games for OKC and posted averages of 12.3 points, 6.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists.
Now with the Bulls, Giddey is expected to become the full-time point guard and share the backcourt with another promising young guard in Coby White.
Josh Giddey makes bold claim about the new-look Chicago Bulls
This offseason, the Chicago Bulls went through a lot of changes regarding their roster makeup. With some fresh faces in the lineup, Josh Giddey made a bold claim about one area they can thrive in.
Over the past few years, Chicago has had veterans like DeMar DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic who thrive better in a slower offensive system. Now that the former finds himself on the Sacramento Kings, it seems the Bulls are aiming to drastically up their tempo.
During his media day press conference, Josh Giddey touched on how playing fast has been a focal point for the Bulls. He feels once the group gets adjusted, they can be a real threat when it comes to transition play.
"We started scrimmaging with 14-second shot clocks to emphasize the pace we want to play," Giddey said Monday. "Once it becomes a habit, this team's going to be pretty scary in the open court."
Given their collection of talent, the Bulls would benefit greatly from being a fast-paced team. Especially considering Zach Lavine is healthy and ready to return to his All-Star form.
Aside from Lavine, Chicago has a pair of high-end playmakers in Giddey and a returning Lonzo Ball. Seeing that they can find open teammates anywhere, a fast-paced offense could make them an extremely tough cover for opposing defenses.