By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Finnish star Lauri Markkanen remains far from an agreement in extension talks with the Chicago Bulls ahead of Monday’s deadline for players set to become restricted free agents next offseason, reports team insider K.C. Johnson on NBC Sports Chicago.
Markkanen, 23, joined the Bulls in 2017 after being selected with the 7th overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft. His rookie contract expires following the conclusion of the approaching 2020-21 season. He will be part of the restricted free agents market, likely as one of the strongest players available if he does not sign an extension before the deadline.
The ongoing discussions have left a wide gap between the involved parties, according to the latest update. Executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas has publicly expressed his willingness to retain Markkanen but that might not prove enough at the current stage of negotiations.
The Bulls would be able to match an offer sheet signed by the player, according to the restricted free agent regulations. However, the 2021 free-agent class quickly drying out and many teams setting themselves up with additional salary cap space can eventually lead the Finnish big elsewhere.
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