Giddey Drives Bulls Offense in Loss to 76ers

Giddey helped spark a more forceful Chicago attack, setting up teammates with drives into the lane and scoring 19 points himself. His 15 assists were a season best, though five turnovers—including two late in the game—proved costly in the defeat to Philadelphia, which entered with an 8-2 record and the Eastern Conference’s best mark.

The Bulls shot 52.3% from the field, their highest mark of the season and their first game above 50%. Giddey had seven assists in the opening six minutes, as Chicago recorded 13 first-quarter field goals, also a season high.

Chicago coach Tiago Splitter said Giddey was aggressive and created opportunities for others. Giddey said the team is more effective when it gets into the paint, rather than settling for difficult shots early in possessions. He also acknowledged that he wanted back a couple of his late turnovers.

Guard Norman Powell was unavailable after developing back spasms that morning. Isaac Okoro took his place in the lineup and scored 12 points. Matas Buzelis also had 19 points, while Caleb Wilson scored 18 and Jalen Smith added 17. Noa Essengue contributed 10 points off the bench.

Splitter pointed to Philadelphia’s 20 offensive rebounds as a key difference. He said Chicago competed and showed aspects of the style it wants to play, but it was not enough to win. The Bulls’ challenging run continues when San Antonio visits on November 11; the Spurs were also 8-2 entering the matchup.