Kris Dunn was part of the blockbuster trade that sent Jimmy Butler to the Minnesota Timberwolves and is expected to be a key part of the Chicago Bulls’ rebuilding process. They are hoping that he will break out and reach his full potential, which would mean that he would earn the starting point guard role long-term.
Chicago is going to go through a bit of a rough season unless something unexpected happens. Zach LaVine was the biggest piece the Bulls got in return for Butler, but he is still trying to fully recover from a torn ACL that he suffered last season. There are a lot of young pieces to jumpstart the rebuild, but it will take a couple years before the Bulls will be able to compete in the Eastern Conference again.
Last season with the Timberwolves, Dunn had a rough rookie year. He ended up playing in 78 games and starting in seven of them. Dunn averaged just 3.8 points per game, while chipping in 2.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds per game.
Those numbers may not look impressive, but his shooting numbers were even worse. Dunn shot just 37.7 percent from the field overall and knocked down a measly 28.8 percent of his three-point attempts.
Needless to say, this is a big year for Dunn to prove that he is better than his first season indicated.
All of that being said, what goals should be set for Dunn in his second NBA season and his first with the Bulls?
Earn and Keep the Starting Point Guard Job
First and foremost, Dunn needs to come in and earn the starting job. Not only does he need to earn it, but he needs to keep it throughout the course of the season. Dunn will be competing with Jerian Grant and Cameron Payne, which bodes well for his chances to win the job.
Average at Least 12 Points Per Game
Chicago is hoping that Dunn can unlock some of his offensive potential this season. Upping his average to around 12 points per game would be an ideal mark for him in his second year. Dunn needs to improve his three-point shooting, but his ability to get to the paint should help him accomplish this goal.
Become a Legitimate Floor General
Not only does Dunn need to win the starting job and improve his offensive game, he also needs to become a leader on the floor. Point guards do much more than pass and set teammates up, he will have to direct Fred Hoiberg’s offense. Dunn struggled with that last season and needs to show that he is capable of leading a team from the point guard position.
Do you think Kris Dunn will be able to reach these goals? What other goals would you add to the list? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below!