Arguably having the best seat in the world, Josh Giddey had a firsthand experience in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's superstar rise after sharing a backcourt with him for three seasons. He saw him go from a first-time All-Star to MVP runner-up.

Before the game, Giddey spoke highly of his former teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Giddey (h/t Joel Lorenzi of The Oklahoman): "He's an incredibly hard worker. The guy lives in

Josh Giddey faced his former team for the first time back in October, when the Bulls hosted the Thunder during the first week of the regular season. But Monday’s contest represented the first time that Giddey had returned to Oklahoma City since the two teams completed the trade sending him to Chicago in exchange for Alex Caruso last June.

Alex Caruso scrambling in his white Thunder threads, the last man to rotate on a suffocating defensive possession early in the second quarter, closing out on Josh Giddey, who donned his No. 3 dipped in Bulls attire.

Thunder 145, Bulls 117: Josh Giddey's return to OKC was spoiled. The Thunder destroyed the Bulls in a game where they led by as many as 43 points. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a modest 27 points and 12 rebounds as he sat out another fourth quarter.

Bulls guard Josh Giddey said he's trying to "put those emotions to the side" in his return to OKC to face the Thunder on Monday.