Lauri Markkanen shows offensive versatility despite tough shooting night in Bulls season debut

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Considering the fact that he had not played in an NBA game since April 11, Lauri Markkanen was bound to show rust in his 2018-19 season debut.

Markkanen missed the Bulls' first 23 games this season after suffering an elbow injury in training camp. The Rockets beat the Bulls 121-105, and Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg noted how Houston was a tough opponent for Markkanen to return against.

“It’s a tough game to come back to when you’re playing against a team that switches everything like they do," Hoiberg said. "I liked Lauri’s aggressiveness, I liked to see him going to the hole without any reservation.

"He stepped out, took some shots that he’ll make, there’s no doubt about that."

Playing with a minutes restriction, Markkanen posted 10 points on 4-of-14 shooting Saturday night. The 21-year-old shot 2-of-6 from three, however, while also posting four rebounds, a block and a steal in 26 minutes. 

Despite the 10 missed shots, Markkanen and his offensive versatility is a welcomed addition to the Bulls.

"It’s great to have him out there," Hoiberg said. "He does a lot of things for this team as far as rebounding and obviously what he can do as a versatile offensive player. So it was great to have him back out and for him, I’m sure it’s great to get this first one under the belt."

Markkanen reminded everybody just why he earned All-Rookie first-team honors last season. In addition to nailing two three-pointers, he showed his ability to put the ball on the floor and drive to the basket.

Hoiberg mentioned the Rockets being a tough opponent to return to action against, though Markkanen offered an honest critique of his performance.

"[I] missed some easy shots, but I think I played decent defense at least, so I tried to make an impact there," Markkanen said. "But I’m not worried about my shots, I just gotta get my legs back."

Markkanen admitted he was a little bit nervous at the start of the game. He left a few shots short enough to just graze the rim while sending his first shot over the rim from the left elbow.

Of course, his shot will only improve over time (and did Saturday). This will be especially true when Markkanen gets his legs back, as he said.

"I was just so excited to get back out there," he said. "I think you can see that from my first stint in the first quarter, so I kind of got a little more comfortable going forward."

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