Flight delay thwarts Lauri Markkanen's return to Bulls

Bulls rookie Lauri Markkanen won't return to the lineup Monday against the Kings after all.

Markkanen has been away from the team, missing the last two games, due to the birth of his child. He was expected to return to the lineup Monday, but flight delays thwarted his plans.

Due to weather back home in Chicago, @markkanenLauri’s flight has been cancelled. He will no longer join the team in Sacramento.
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) February 4, 2018

Averaging 15.3 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, Markkanen, a 7-footer with a sweet 3-point shooting touch, has given the Bulls hope in an otherwise rebuilding season.

The Bulls already traded forward Nikola Mirotic this month, leading up to this week's trade deadline. Chicago has been rumored with more moves as they try to offload veterans and build around their new, young stars.

Markkanen should be able to rejoin the team for Friday's game against the Timberwolves