Pelicans expressing interest in Lauri Markkanen

The Pelicans have expressed interest in Lauri Markkanen and hold a sizable trade exception ($17 million) to take the restricted free agent in on a contract he seeks, sources say.

Source: Marc Stein/Substack

ANALYSIS: Stein added that the Bulls would want a first-round pick back in any sign-and-trade. Markkanen has made it clear that he would like to leave Chicago, and is currently a restricted free agent with the Bulls. The 24-year-old averaged 13.6 points and 5.3 rebounds per game last season.