2. Zach LaVine/Lauri Markkanen, Chicago Bulls
Zach LaVine is coming off a stellar All-Star season, proving that he’s a winning player and can lead a team. The only problem is that his team was plagued with injuries a season ago.
LaVine finished a top-15 scorer in the league averaging 23.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, and expanded on his play-making skills with 4.5 assists. He shot an efficient 46 percent and 37 from 3 while facing continuous double teams every night. Proving that he’s a top talent.
Shedding his dunk contest champion title, LaVine is showcasing his star ability at 24 years of age and is poised to be an All-Star this season with an upgraded roster.
Speaking of an upgraded roster, Lauri Markkanen, in only his second season, has become a valuable big in this 3-point shooting NBA. Markkanen is a seven-footer with the ability to shoot well beyond the arc. An extremely valued trait for a big to posses in this league
The Finnish big men averaged 18.7 points and nine rebounds last season. In 52 games, he displayed his prowess in the post-game and ability to stretch the floor. An exceptional inside-out game.
After the Bulls received Otto Porter, the seven-footer had his best stretch of basketball in the month of February. He recorded 12 straight double-doubles and seven 20-10 games while shooting 49 percent. After putting on a ton of muscle mass this offseason, Lauri looks to fill out his skillset with a more consistent defensive game.
LaVine and Markkanen are an overlooked duo that has the potential to go off any game and will be a headache for coaches to scheme around for years to come.
Watch out for this double-headed monster. The two young talents can score anywhere from the floor and, after three years of rebuilding, are looking to reach the postseason.