Chicago Bulls: 5 goals for Lauri Markkanen in the 2020-21 season

NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 10: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Lauri Markkanen #24 of the Chicago Bulls in action against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on January 10, 2018 in New York City. The Bulls defeated the Knicks 122-119 in double overtime. 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. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

2 of 6

Chicago Bulls (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

Lauri Markkanen’s first goal: Stay healthy

To be fair, injuries have served as an impediment to Lauri Markkanen’s growth as a player. Even in his second season, the most productive of his career to-date, a sprain to his right elbow cost him the first 23 games of the year. It’s hard for anyone to find their identity as a ballplayer when dealing with limited in-game reps due to missed contests.

Chicago has a young team; Otto Porter Jr. is the oldest player in their core group and he’s just 27 years old. The foundation of the team hasn’t been together long, and they must be on the court at the same time to learn how to best function as a unit.

Last season, a stress reaction to his right pelvis cost Markkanen 15 games. That could very well be a factor in his decreased productivity from year two to year three. It’s no secret that players oftentimes hide nagging injuries from team doctors and even play through them because they don’t want to miss being on the court with their teammates.

There’s no telling how long the injury was hampering Markkanen before it became too much to bear and he was forced to take time off. Bulls fans can only hope that Lauri has taken full advantage of this extended off-season to rest and recuperate. To see him at 100 percent would be refreshing, especially knowing how effective he can be when his unique skill set is utilized properly.

Home/Chicago Bulls