Josh Giddey Stats Tonight: How did Bulls star fare against Miami Heat? (Apr. 16) | 2025 Play-In Tournament
Josh Giddey and the Chicago Bulls hosted the Miami Heat on Wednesday in a win-or-go-home showdown. The Bulls, which went 3-0 against the Heat in the regular season, were looking to dominate a familiar opponent and earn the right to meet the Atlanta Hawks in another winner-take-all encounter.
Giddey was all over the floor in the first quarter. The Australian opened the game with a block against Andrew Wiggins before scoring a floater. Giddey finished the period with 13 points, three rebounds and one assist.
Although Giddey played well, the Chicago Bulls' defense could not stop the Heat onslaught. Miami led 39-28 after one quarter behind a sizzling 6-for-9 clip from deep.
The Miami Heat defense shut down Giddey in the second quarter, forcing him to miss the only two shots he attempted. Miami dominated the quarter 32-19 and pushed its lead to 71-47 at halftime.
Josh Giddey fueled the Bulls' best stretch in the third quarter. The point guard had seven points, two rebounds and one assist to help his team edge Miami 27-17. Chicago cut the deficit to 88-74 with a quarter left to play.
Chicago's versatile guard opened the fourth quarter with a 3-pointer. He did not make another basket until 2:39 left when the Miami Heat had already built an insurmountable 105-86 lead. Bulls coach Billy Donovan removed him a few plays later to signal their surrender.
The Miami Heat limited Josh Giddey's effectiveness by clogging the paint
A big reason the OKC Thunder let Josh Giddey go was his inconsistent outside shot. The Chicago Bulls acquired Giddey because he had more to offer despite his inefficient shooting behind the arc. This season, Giddy improved his marksmanship from long range, hitting 37.8% after averaging 31.0% in Oklahoma.
The Miami Heat tested Giddey by staying off him and daring him to shoot. They also stayed on players who usually benefit from his inside forays. The strategy was a resounding success as the Heat controlled the game from start to finish.
Josh Giddey went 9-for-21, including 2-for-7 from deep, and finished with four assists, his lowest tally this month.