Don’t look now, but Luol Deng is shooting 50 percent from 3-point land this preseason.
Carmelo Anthony, for those wondering, is at 35.7 percent. Of course, Anthony is averaging 23.5 points to Deng’s 14.1, so there is that.
Sarcasm aside, Deng has had a stellar preseason, complete with solid defense, and can’t wait for the regular season to start.
“I’m trying to play a complete game,” Deng said. “A lot of people have opinions, but I love basketball and I’ve always just wanted to get better. This system fits me great.”
Deng’s 3-point prowess — on a robust 24 attempts — has surprised everybody but coach Tom Thibodeau.
“I knew he was capable,” Thibodeau said. “And I knew he shot the corner 3 extremely well because ( the Celtics) were always concerned with it when we played against him. Watching him shoot after practice, he’s much more confident. As long as he’s practicing that shot, I don’t mind him taking it.
“He has played a complete game. I’ve liked his defense and his offense. He’s mixing things up well. He’s moving without the ball, hitting the midrange jumper and added the 3-point shot. He’s posting up. He’s had a terrific preseason.”
All “cystems” go: Kyle Korver confirmed surgery was discussed as a “last resort” option for the painful cyst in his left ankle that sidelined him Wednesday in Toronto. But the sharpshooting guard said the cortisone shot he took late last week is taking effect, likely avoiding the two- or three-week absence surgery would create.
“It’s calmed down enough now where we can maintain it,” Korver said. “They’re hoping it just goes away.”
Layups: The Bulls waived Roger Powell, Kyle Weaver and John Lucas III. With the roster at 13 players, there might be another signing by Monday’s roster deadline. … Derrick Rose joked he’s paying a price for his newfound commitment to defense. “Six of my fingers are messed up and jammed just from reaching in,” he said. “I guess that comes from playing defense.”
