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Chicago Bulls: 5 goals for Lauri Markkanen’s rookie season

By James D. Tillman III

Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images
Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images /
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Chicago Bulls
BROOKLYN, NY – JUNE 22: Lauri Markkanen speaks with the media after being selected seventh overall by the Chicago Bulls at the 2017 NBA Draft on June 22, 2017 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Pellegrino/NBAE via Getty Images) /

5. Be patient

As is the case with most athletes — or any of us stepping into a new job for that matter — the immediate goal is to prove that we belong. This especially holds true for Markkanen, considering he was the seventh overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft.

At the same time, though, Markkanen has to understand there are a number of players ahead of him vying for playing time in the rotation, and that he is going to have to earn his minutes from day one.

Like the rookies that came before him — Bobby Portis and Denzel Valentine — Markannen has to also understand there will be growing pains, which will include instances in which he will not see a ton of playing time.

On the flip side of the coin, he has to remain patient and stay ready because there will be times when he will be given the opportunity to showcase what he brings to the table. If he remains patient and stars in whatever role that is given to him (i.e. former Bulls forward Taj Gibson), then good things will follow.

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