Bulls' Dunn aiming for improved outside shot
Kris Dunn is hoping to unveil an improved shooting stroke when preseason games begin next week. Dunn, the No. 5 pick of the 2016 draft, shot just 38 percent overall and 29 percent from 3-point range as a rookie in Minnesota.
"It's coming along," Dunn said Thursday at the Advocate Center. "I think (coach) Fred (Hoiberg) is doing an unbelievable job with me. He was a great shooter when he played. I think he has shown me a couple things that I need to work on my technique. He's helping me with the fundamentals. The big thing is being confident when I shoot. That's what he's trying to instill."
Dunn talked about being "shot ready" this year. He said in high school and college, he was bigger and more athletic than most opponents, so he focused on getting to the basket. He also didn't get many chances last year playing behind Ricky Rubio, so this is basically a repeat rookie season.
"I think (assistant) Jim Boylen is doing a great job with me, getting me to the right spots, teaching me not to gamble as much (defensively)," Dunn said. "I love to gamble. On the offensive end, Fred is helping me with confidence."
Pondexter enjoys return:
Quincy Pondexter thought his career might be over last year. He hasn't played at all the past two seasons because of knee issues, but is making a comeback with the Bulls.
"Man, it's a blessing. I haven't played, or practiced really since May of 2015," Pondexter said after Thursday's practice. "With all of the things I've been through, to be able to play for an organization like this, it's a blessing, man. I get to play with my high school teammate Robin Lopez and my college teammate Justin Holiday."
Before the injuries, Pondexter was developing a reputation as a nice role player. He's played five NBA seasons with Memphis and New Orleans, averaging 9.0 points for the Pelicans in 2014-15.
"I'm feeling great. Nine months ago I could have told you, I thought it was over," he said. "Not even just basketball, but my life. So to be in this position, to be able to practice fully with no limitations, it's crazy. It's crazy."
Bulls add Koenig:
With a roster spot open after the departure of Dwyane Wade, the Bulls signed former Wisconsin guard Bronson Koenig on Thursday. The 6-4 native of LaCrosse, Wis., averaged 14.5 points and shot 39 percent from 3-point range for the Badgers last season. He signed to a two-way contract this summer with the Milwaukee Bucks, but was released last week.
Koenig is likely to become an affiliate player for the Windy City Bulls in the G-League. The suburban Bulls now have six potential players in the NBA training camp - Koenig, guard Antonio Blakeney, guard Ryan Arcidiacono, center Diamond Stone, forward Jarell Eddie and forward Jaylen Johnson.