Chicago Bulls: 4 factors that will determine if Kris Dunn stays a Bull

Chicago Bulls (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)
Chicago Bulls (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Chicago Bulls Kris Dunn
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3. His relationship with Jim Boylen

While Kris Dunn feels that toughness is either something you are born with or not, Chicago Bulls coach Jim Boylen made toughening his players a top priority when he first took over. Taking into account the numerous injuries suffered by Dunn since arriving to Chicago, strengthening his body and mind may be in his best interest.

He has missed 66 games in first two seasons as a Bull and last year he missed all but one of the first 27 games. In fact, the Bulls had all three players from the Butler trade on the court together for only a handful of games. They still need a chance to learn how to play together.

It is safe to say that last year could be thrown out the window, not just for Dunn but for the team as a whole. The upcoming season will determine who stays and who goes.

Dunn has his work cut out for him. Jim Boylen has praised Dunn’s athletic ability but he wants the ball to move around. He wants numerous ball handlers creating offense.

That has never been Dunn’s game though. As much as he regressed when LaVine entered the scene, the additions of small forward Otto Porter and Satoransky now make ball movement an obligation.

If Kris Dunn does not stay healthy or learn to thrive in a situation where he must play off the ball, he may fall out of favor with Boylen rather quickly. Unlike last year, the bench is deep, especially at point guard where rookie Coby White will be breathing down Dunn’s neck.