4. Lauri Markkanen, Chicago Bulls
Chicago Bulls rookie Lauri Markkanen is beginning to assert himself on the roster and it’s showing with his overall production. Markkanen became the fastest player to make 100 3-pointers last Monday, completing the feat in just 41 games. The previous record of 58 games was held by Stephen Curry.
Along with his 3-point shooting prowess, Markkanen is averaging 15.5 points, 7.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. He’s shooting 36.3 percent from 3-point range as well.
He put up a career-high 33 points back on Jan. 10 in a duel against Kristaps Porzingis and the New York Knicks. The Bulls won the game in overtime, 122-119.
Looking at his numbers in January, Markkanen is shooting 43.8 percent from 3-point range to go along with 18.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. If his production continues to go up, Markkanen could find himself in Rookie of the Year talks in no time. He’s showing there’s no shortage of big men, at least in Chicago, with his ability to play both inside and out.