Josh Giddey’s Versatility Continues To Shine

When he was selected sixth overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2021 NBA Draft, Josh Giddey was known for being a jumbo guard that could do anything on the floor with his elite positional size. He entered the league as one of the best young passers in the game and a high upside glass cleaner.

The Australian’s impact was felt early in his first season, as he was an immediate starter and made history in no time, becoming the youngest player in NBA history to notch a triple-double. By the end of the season, Giddey was the Thunder’s leader in both assists and rebounds per game despite being a rookie.

Now in year two, the 20-year-old continues to put together an impressive body of work as an NBA athlete. This was further quantified on Tuesday night, when Giddey once again made history in his 90th NBA game.

In Oklahoma City’s first National TV game in over two years, he notched a triple-double with a performance that included 18 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists. This outstanding game put Giddey in elite company, as he reached 1,000 points, 700 rebounds and 500 assists for his career faster than nearly every player in the history of the NBA. He is just the fourth player ever to notch those three milestones in 100 games or less, joining Luka Doncic (85 games), Ben Simmons (85) and Grant Hill (100).

This was Giddey’s second triple-double of the season and the sixth of his career.

What’s especially promising about the young guard is that he’s just scratching the surface of his potential. In fact, it was just a few weeks ago in which he played his 82nd NBA game, completing a full season of experience.

Furthermore, the glaring weakness in Giddey’s game to this point has been the 3-point shooting, which is much improved this season as he’s knocked down 34.2% of his attempts from beyond the arc. His work on the jumper with new assistant coach Chip Engelland appears to be paying off. If his perimeter shot is real, watch out.

Giddey is simply one of the more versatile players in the league. He can play upwards of four positions on both ends with his 6-foot-9 size and strong frame, but also has the natural skills of a lead guard.

As a prospect that can truly do it all, his future with this rising Thunder team is bright.

Relative to his draft class, Giddey currently ranks sixth in points, first in assists and second in rebounds per game. Oklahoma City found a gem that is trending towards being one of the most productive overall players in franchise history when it’s all said and done.