After languishing at the bottom much of last season, the Bulls finished tied for 24th in 3-point shooting at 34 percent.
Is Lauri Markkanen Finnish for savior?
Scouts consider Markkanen, a native of Finland who shot 42 percent for Arizona from the shorter 3-point line in college last season, one of the strongest shooters in the NBA draft.
Acquiring Zach LaVine and Kris Dunn from the Timberwolves in the Jimmy Butler trade addressed athleticism during the draft Thursday night. Adding Markkanen with the seventh overall pick obtained from the Timberwolves is designed to address shooting.
"Definitely my biggest strength is stretch the floor, make shots and help the team," Markkanen said. "I'm trying to be a complete player. Much of it is staying in the weight room and getting stronger."
Markkanen said he never has been to Chicago and had little contact with Bulls officials leading up to the draft.
"I'm definitely happy to be there," Markkanen said. "I've been working on my shot, making NBA 3s. I can make that shot better than (the college distance)."
