Chicago Bulls: 3 ways Kris Dunn needs to improve in 2018-19

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 8: Kris Dunn #32 of the Chicago Bulls handles the ball against the Charlotte Hornets on December 8, 2017 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2 of 4

Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images /

3. Dunn must improve his shooting touch

For the Bulls to make a playoff push in 2018-19, Dunn’s improvement will be crucial. It’s no secret that his shooting needs work. Just a 42.9 percent shooter from the field and 32.1 percent from 3-point range, Dunn has to develop this area of his game.

Breaking down his shooting even further, Dunn posted a 48.8 True Shooting percentage last season. That’s just not good enough for the Bulls to have solid success in 2018-19. By contrast, Stephen Curry‘s True Shooting percentage was 67.5 percent. Only 20.1 percent of Dunn’s shot attempts were from long range, which also needs to improve. Simply put, he has to develop a stronger comfort level from 3-point land to truly maximize his potential on the court.

At the rim, Dunn has to be better. He’s proven he can get to the basket, but when he does, he has to finish. Dunn only shot 45.7 percent from 2-point range, with 43.1 percent of his attempts coming from within 10 feet. In a league where games often come down to the final few minutes, Dunn’s efficiency around the rim will have to improve dramatically.

With Parker, Markkanen and Zach LaVine all being slashers, Dunn needs to develop consistency with his shot. The Bulls are loaded with scorers, so it’s not necessary for Dunn to become a high volume shooter. However, when the ball is in his hands, he has to be a threat to score.

Dunn has shown the ability to improve. In reality, working with Fred Hoiberg may save his career. Dunn nearly tripled his scoring output from his lone season with the Minnesota Timberwolves. His rookie season saw the Providence product average 3.8 points per game. Last season, Dunn averaged 13.4 points per game in 52 contests.

Home/Chicago Bulls