Lauri Markkanen transformed by the Cavaliers project

Currently in full preparation for Eurobasket 2022 with Finland, Lauri Markkanen revives. The leader of the selection guided by Lassi Tuovi is fulfilled in his role in the national team, and measures the chance that was his to land in Cleveland after a mixed end to the course in Chicago.

More than four months after the end of the Cavs season, post 4 is still talking about the 2021-2022 fiscal year with stars in their eyes, and for good reason, JB Bickerstaff’s group has been able to create a real dynamic, between promising young elements, two veterans like Ricky Rubio and Kevin Love, and a Lauri Markkanen who knew how to integrate into the group and be productive.

“We really enjoyed being together. We loved JB Bickerstaff’s system and we had that youthful energy. Once we started winning games, we realized we could really make some noise in the league. If it hadn’t been for all the injuries, I think we had the chance to go far in the playoffs. »he explained.

At only 25 years old, he discovered the role of… veteran! “It kinda hit me at one point when I was the oldest in our five majors. Evan Mobley and Darius Garland are both incredibly talented guys and I think we’ve really supported each other throughout the season. »

Ambitious on both sides of the Atlantic

Without the injuries, the Cavaliers probably would not have fallen to the play-in. The future remains bright despite everything, with a new opportunity to strike a blow next season. Lauri Markkanen is in any case enthusiastic, especially at the idea of ​​finding a fit Ricky Rubio and with the expected return of Collin Sexton.

“Injuries are part of the game and as athletes we just try to stay in the present and look forward. Kevin (Love) and Ricky have been huge for us. It was really great to see veterans like them playing such inspired basketball.”he added. “With Collin Sexton in good health and Ricky coming back, we are a year older and we are more serene. We can improve by building on what we did last season and building that collective trust, one training session, one game at a time.”

Before that, the EuroBasket will soon arrive. In Group D, Finland will have to face Serbia, Poland, the Czech Republic (hosts) and the Netherlands. Leader of the selection, Lauri Markkanen will approach it like his season with the Cavs, without pressure, but with the desire to achieve great things.

“It’s a tough group but we all like a challenge. There’s nothing better than the chance to play against the best and it’s been five years since EuroBasket, so we’re really looking forward to it. While we are preparing for all the opponents, the most important thing to do is to play and perform as a team”.