LeBron Praises Bulls' Giddey for Improved Shooting

Chicago guard's development impresses Lakers star as team struggles

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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LeBron James recently expressed his admiration for Josh Giddey's progress as an NBA player following his move to the Chicago Bulls. The Los Angeles Lakers star emphasized Giddey's improved shooting ability and overall impact on the team, noting how the guard's evolution has elevated his game.

Why it matters

Giddey's growth as a scoring and playmaking guard offers hope for the struggling Chicago Bulls to break out of their slump and contend for playoff positioning again. LeBron's public praise may also increase expectations for Giddey's role in Chicago's ongoing rebuilding efforts.

The details

Currently starring for Chicago, Giddey is averaging 18.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game while shooting 46.2% from the field and 36.6% from beyond the arc over 34 games. His enhanced shooting makes him a more dangerous offensive threat. The transition to Chicago has seen Giddey refine parts of his game that were previously considered weaknesses, particularly his shooting stroke.

  • LeBron James made his comments about Giddey at his recent All-Star press conference.

The players

LeBron James

A 41-year-old NBA superstar who currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers. He is one of the greatest players in NBA history and continues to perform at a high level.

Josh Giddey

A 23-year-old guard who was the sixth overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. He spent his first three seasons with the Oklahoma City Thunder before being traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he has improved his shooting and become a more well-rounded offensive threat.

Chicago Bulls

An NBA franchise based in Chicago, Illinois that is currently struggling with a 24-31 record and a six-game losing streak, despite Giddey's individual success.

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What they’re saying

“I think Josh Giddey continues to get better and better. I think his development since he's gotten to Chicago. His knock was when he left OKC was his ability to shoot the ball. Now, he's shooting the ball. He's a big guard, he pushes the pace with a lot of steam.. I think Chicago has a really great player in him.”

— LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers star

What’s next

The Bulls are set to face the Toronto Raptors at the United Center following the All-Star break, hoping to reverse their recent poor form and get their season back on track.

The takeaway

Giddey's development in Chicago has impressed veteran stars like LeBron James, offering hope for the struggling Bulls franchise. However, the team must find a way to translate Giddey's individual growth into more wins and a return to the playoffs.