Lauri Markkanen is among the available players in the free agent market as a restricted free agent. Despite his statement about a fresh start, the Bulls’ forward could be staying in Chicago for next season.
According to Brett Siegel of the NBA Analysis Network, Markkanen future is still pretty much in the air, however the Bulls are interested in keeping the Finnish forward on his $9 million qualifying offer.
If the promising forward ends up accepting the deal, he will be an unrestricted free agent next season. Markkanen shot a career-high 40 percent from deep last season; however, his role was diminished due to injuries.
Markkanen is a great scorer and shooter, but his fit alongside Nikola Vucevic is questionable due to the lack of defense and rim protection.
According to Siegel, New Orleans, San Antonio and Minnesota were interested in acquiring Markkanen, but they did not want to meet his salary demands.
The forward from Finland could choose to play the 2021-22 season in Chicago, and if he shows improvements in his game to earn a better deal next offseason as an unrestricted free agent.
