2. Lauri Markkanen, Power Forward
There’s not a huge gap in trade value between the final two Chicago Bulls players on this list. But the start that each of these two former Bulls seventh overall draft picks caused the separation in trade value for each if they were to somehow hit the open market this season. This player also shouldn’t be traded by GarPax unless the return is huge.
Third-year former Arizona Wildcats power forward Lauri Markkanen had an up and down start to this season to say the least. He came out in the regular season opener on an absolute high note with 35 points and 17 rebounds in the devastating letdown of a one-point loss to the Charlotte Hornets back Oct. 23.
Since that 126-125 opening night loss on the road to the Hornets, Markkanen brought mixed results for this Bulls team. Boylen needs to figure out his rotations to maximize Markkanen during a crucial and difficult November slate. Thus far, Markkanen is averaging 16.8 points per game, 9.0 rebounds, and 2.5.
The confusing part about Markkanen’s numbers up to this point are the frequency of three-point attempts, and the lower shooting percentage from that range, and the doubling of his assist numbers. It made sense for Markkanen to take a more selfish approach this season, but if he can effectively distribute the ball better and find his shot from downtown, he’ll continue on his possible path to stardom in his third season in the NBA.