By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
After four years at the Chicago Bulls and searching for a way out through the last offseason, Lauri Markkanen moved to the Cleveland Cavaliers on a sign-and-trade deal completed in late August. Forward a few months, he helped his current team take down his previous side Wednesday.
“I didn’t even think about it that way,” he said brushing off any special feelings about facing his former team, “We just needed to cut the losing streak. That was our mindset. We were able to get it done.”
The Cavs were coming off two losses in a row. The Finnish forward helped the team coached by J. B. Bickerstaff bounce back with 14 points behind 5/8 field goals, including 2/4 triples at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
“I think my teammates and coaching staff have the confidence in me and try to get me going. I appreciate it obviously,” he added on adjustments made for his second NBA team, “So, I try to pick my spots when to be aggressive or create for others.”
Markkanen, 24, will be back in Chicago as the Cavaliers visit the Bulls on January 19. The crowd at the United Center is not expected to give him an enthusiastic welcome, potentially leading to an entirely different situation.
His contribution amounts to 14.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game so far. Fellow Europeans, Ricky Rubio has produced 13.2 points, 6.3 assists, 4.0 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, and Cedi Osman 11.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and one steal per game.
Jumping to 14-12 thanks to the latest win, Cleveland made it half a game behind a direct ticket to the Playoffs and sixth place in the Eastern Conference.
Photo Credit: Getty Images