Chicago Bulls forward Bobby Portis is slated to back up rookie Lauri Markkanen at the power forward slot after becoming eligible to come back from suspension, according to Darnell Mayberry of The Athletic.
Head coach Fred Hoiberg has seen the growth of the rookie through the first eight games of the season — scoring 13 or more points through each of them thus far.
Portis faces a difficult situation once again, forced to scramble for minutes, not with Nikola Mirotic this time, but with the seventh overall selection that has bloomed in front of the coaching staff's eyes.
Markkanen is averaging 33 minutes per game, which limits Portis' production at power forward — meaning an occasional change to the center spot would aid him the most in the search for a role in this rotation.
The Finnish 20-year-old has shown a well-rounded package at the offensive side of the ball, with averages of 16.3 points and 9.0 rebounds per game.
Portis could possibly play a motor role on this team, bringing energy off the bench and some defensive toughness — but his chances to secure a starting spot are nearly non-existent barring injury.
The Bulls will try to make the most of this season and tap into young players' talents, now honing into Markkanen's evolution as the big man of the future.
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