2. The new and improved Lauri Markkanen
When the Bulls acquired Markkanen, the plan was to bring him along at a deliberate pace. After all, there were two players ahead of him on the depth chart at the power forward spot.
But thanks to a preseason scuffle between Bobby Portis and Nikola Mirotic, Markkanen was inserted into the starting lineup, and he never looked back. During his rookie campaign, Markkanen compiled averages of 15.2 points, 7.5 rebounds on 43.4 percent shooting from the field and 36.2 percent from 3-point range.
Markkanen also became the fastest player to hit 100 3-pointers, accomplishing the feat in his 41st game. He was also named to the All-Rookie first team.
Lauri Markkanen made 100 3-pointers faster than the best shooters in NBA history. pic.twitter.com/ZjQlyZslOG
— ESPN (@espn) January 16, 2018
On the heels of an offseason in which he spent some time in the weight room, not only will he have an easier time backing down smaller defenders, the added strength should enable Markkanen to become a better post defender as well.
Simply put, as impressive as his rookie season was, Year 2 should be even better.