Chicago Bulls: Lauri Markkanen can become an All-Star next season

After another disappointing season, the Chicago Bulls have a bright future ahead of them with Lauri Markkanen leading the charge

After his first two seasons were barred by injuries, Lauri Markkanen has shown that he is capable of leading the Chicago Bulls into the playoffs while earning his first All-Star nod.

In 51 appearances last season, the Finnish PF out of Arizona averaged 18.7 points (career-high), 9.5 rebounds (career-high), 1.4 assists (career-high), 0.6 blocks, 0.6 steals, on 43 FG%, 36.1 3P%, 87.2 FT% (career-high),

Markkanen’s points, rebounds, assists, free-throw percentage, and minutes per game all increased last season before he was shut down last season due to a potential heart issue.

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These increases are a great sign in regards to Markkanen’s star potential and his ability to average at least 20 points and 10 rebounds by next season.

Aside from scoring (career-high) 35 points, 15 rebounds, 12-20 FG, 3-7 3PT, 8-9 FT, in 37 minutes in a win against the Boston Celtics earlier this season, Markkanen put up superstar numbers during the month of February.

He led the Bulls by beginning the month with three straight 30-point games and scoring at least 20 points in all 10 games (5-5).

Here are Markkanen’s numbers in February: 26 points, 12.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 48.6 FG%, 34.8 3P%, 92.3 FT%, in 36.3 minutes a game.

Athleticism

Standing 7-feet tall and weighing 240 pounds, Markkanen is among the most athletic big men in today’s NBA. His explosiveness and growth in these past two seasons will translate into many years of dominance.

Markkanen’s athleticism can be closely compared to Kristaps Porziņģis and Giannis Antetokounmpo in regards to length and weight, with the ability to hit an outside shot and attack the rim at will.

3-point threat

Aside from making NBA history by making 10 3-pointers in his first three career games, Markkanen has proven to be a constant threat from beyond the arc in today’s modern game.

He is one of the few bigs who can hit a three in transition, off a catch and shoot, off a screen, and in isolation.

Along with drawing comparisons to KP, he has also been compared to Dirk Nowitzki by his former veteran coach Henrik Dettmann, who had the pleasure of coaching both of these generational European talents.

Even Markkanen was humbled by this comparison, stating “there will never be another Dirk,” which is definitely true.

But if he can develop a consistent turnaround jumper to accompany his existing (and smooth) 3-point jumper, the comparisons will drastically increase.

Defensive potential

In two seasons, Markkanen has not made enough of an impact on the defensive end. He has averaged only 0.6 blocks and steals in both of his seasons.

But the potential is there, which would massively bolster his value. Markkanen has to continue to work on his timing and confidence or he will be officially labeled as a liability on the defensive end.

It is important to note that Markkanen is only 22 years old, with more than enough time to improve upon his defensive abilities.

Final thoughts

Markkanen has been unable to stay healthy during both of his NBA seasons but has shown plenty from his offensive repertoire and will continue to expand his game.

He is the second-best player on the Bulls behind Zach LaVine and in a couple of seasons they can become one of the most lethal (and young) duos in a more balanced NBA.

Hopefully the Bulls can compete in the playoffs within the next couple of seasons so we can see the damage this under-the-radar duo can do during the most exciting time of the NBA season.

Although he has yet to play more than 68 games in a single season in his young NBA career, the 22-year-old has the potential to be an All-Star and will be regarded as one of the best bigs in the league in couple of seasons.