Lauri Markkanen injured his leg against Estonia: ‘It feels a little strange’

Lauri Markkanen produced his best performance of the national-team summer at an important moment, leading Finland to a 96-67 away win over Estonia in World Cup qualifying. The night also ended with concern after a knock forced him to the bench early in the fourth quarter.

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I can’t say what the situation with the leg is, it hasn’t been examined yet. It feels a little strange.

Markkanen was still limping after the game. “I can’t say what the situation with the leg is, it hasn’t been examined yet. It feels a little strange,” he said. He later returned briefly and, while appearing cautious, made another three-pointer.

The Finnish star finished with 21 points despite sitting out most of the final quarter. His start had been difficult, but a difficult three-pointer late in the second quarter helped open up his shooting. Finland then took the lead before halftime, and Markkanen dominated in the third quarter.

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The summer has not been easy for him.

Coach Lassi Tuovi said he was happy for Markkanen after a difficult summer. Tuovi linked the struggles to Markkanen’s absence through much of the spring, saying a player cannot regain all his rhythm in four days after six months without work. Markkanen will not be available for Finland’s next qualifier against Slovenia on Nov. 27 because the NBA season will be underway.

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If you do not work for half a year, it will not start going smoothly in four days.