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Markkanen makes season debut vs. Rockets

Gary Dineen / National Basketball Association / Getty

Chicago Bulls forward Lauri Markkanen made his season debut against the Houston Rockets on Saturday, coming off the bench.

The Finnish sharpshooter had been out for two months after suffering an elbow injury during training camp in late September.

Chicago has been without several of its key players through the first 23 games. Aside from missing Markkanen, starting point guard Kris Dunn (knee) has appeared in just one contest, reserve forward Bobby Portis (knee) has appeared in four, and backup wing Denzel Valentine (ankle) was recently ruled out for the season.

The Bulls (5-18) have relied heavily on Zach Lavine and Jabari Parker to carry the scoring load. Markkanen should quickly regain his starting spot and add some floor spacing and offensive versatility.

Markkanen averaged 15.2 points and 7.5 boards through 68 contests in his rookie season.

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