Lauri Markkanen, delighted to have a fresh start in Cleveland

Lauri Markkanen had long known that she wanted to get out of Chicago. After a fantastic start in the Illinois franchise, in the last two seasons he had experienced a regression that had led him to believe that the best thing for his career was a change of scene. With such an idea he entered restricted free agency; However, the days and weeks went by without the negotiation that ended with a white smoke.

Finally, after a wait that threatened to block the situation, Cleveland Cavaliers has bet on the Finnish player and has taken over his services through a 3-way transfer and a four-year, $ 67 million deal. Markkanen has achieved what he wanted and he expresses it.

“I don’t think it has reached my roof yet. The last two years have been pretty tough mentally. I’ve grown as a person because of it, so I wouldn’t change it. I have learned a lot. But I still felt like I needed to go back to my old self and be the player that I can be. I think this is a good opportunity to do that. I am happy. I am very excited and anxious. We felt like he needed a fresh start. I thank all the people who participated to help make it happen, ”he says.

Regarding what comes next, Markkanen is excited to join a group full of talent. Collin Sexton, Jarrett Allen, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley … In Ohio they have a base to grow and that is one of the great motivations for the former Bulls.

“I think I fit in well: there is a young point guard and a high level point guard. I’m also looking forward to playing with those great guys at the backcourt. They are all talented young guys. I believe that we can grow together. And I can’t wait to learn from a player like Kevin Love. Just learning aspects of the game and the mentality you have to tackle the game. I’m also looking forward to that moment, “he says.

(Photograph by Daniel / Getty Images)