Chicago Bulls could use Lauri Markkanen to rope in another player with the player being deemed as the prime candidate. Bulls are heavily considering their trade options ahead of the March 25 deadline.
The power forward’s rookie contract is expiring soon and after having a notable season on the court, the Bulls could very much use his growth as leverage in a prospective trade deal.
Thaddeus Young is the player that has been drawing interest for a trade, reports ESPN. However, the franchise would prefer a trade deal involving Markkanen.
He has been averaging 18.7 points on 50.4 percent from the field and 40.8 percent from deep. So far, these numbers are higher than any of his previous seasons. The seven-footer is only behind guards Zach LaVine and Coby White in terms of shots attempted.
Markkanen was unhappy with the team setup last season
The Finnish player was far from pleased with how the team was heading last season. He was also unhappy with the offense over the course of the season.
In a lone bright spot, replacing Jim Boylen with Billy Donovan has made things better for Markkanen. He was not on best of terms with Boylen following the former coach’s response regarding Markannen’s concern for touches in the game.
“We’ve spoken to Lauri numerous times, He’s been very patient, stayed in the market. His family is now with him. I spoke to him about last year. He’s eager to get back to the gym and improve. He was disappointed by the overall result [last season],” the new management team had commented on Markkanen’s state last season.
Picked by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2017 NBA Draft, the rookie was involved in a mega deal involving Zach LaVine and Jimmy Butler, and subsequently signed for the Bulls.
While his development is imminent, it has to be seen which franchise can unlock his full potential if not the Chicago Bulls.
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