This growth of Markkanen remains quietly one of the best stories in the NBA, and certainly for the Bulls.
This European who seemed to be a project is looking like a serious rookie of the year contender. And not just because he is averaging 15.4 points and 7.6 rebounds, top four among rookies, with a league record for three pointers as a rookie. But it's a game like against Atlanta with the Hawks flying at Markkanen at the three-point line that shows his style and versatility.
The silky seven footer repeatedly dashed inside for lob dunks, driving dunks, dribbling dunks, a half dozen overall.
"I just try to be a complete player," said the stoic rookie. "That was their (defensive) game plan. But I can do much more than just shoot. I missed, I don't know how many, threes today. That wasn't going for me, so I figured I'd do something else."
Much easier said than actually done.
Markkanen's ability to handle the ball and adjust to the defense combined with an unforeseen potent nature that belies his narrow frame enables him to continue to produce even as defenses try to adjust to his play.
It's especially unusual for a rookie, and particularly someone who only played one year in the United States. But there have been a lot of surprises with this Bulls team.