Draft could provide intriguing options at shooting guard

The Bulls conducted a workout at the Berto Center on Sunday for six draft prospects, including a trio of players — Xavier Henry of Kansas, James Anderson of Oklahoma State and Paul George of Fresno State – who could fill the need of a shooting guard with a good perimeter shot.

Of course, the Bulls also could use a big man, but stand a better chance of getting a shooting guard who can contribute immediately when their turn at No. 17 comes up.

The June 24 draft is more than a month away, so it’s way too early to say with any certainty which players will be available at the 17th pick, but there’s a good chance at least one of the trio of Henry, Anderson and George still will be on the board.

Right now, it appears that Henry, who played one year for the Jayhawks, is the highest-rated of the three. Although he was used primary as a shooter at Kansas, Henry has a versatile all-around game.

“At Kansas, we had two all-Americans, one down low and a slashing point guard,” Henry said. “We needed an outside shooter, so that role made the most sense for me.

“When I come to these workouts, I want to show my all-around game.”

Anderson, a junior, is rated just behind Henry and also possesses a steady outside shot and the ability to make athletic moves off the dribble.

“Right now, I’m just trying to work out for each team and get feedback and see where I’m going to go,” Anderson said. “I think I’m ready to come in and contribute to a team right away.”

Henry and Anderson, both listed at 6-6, are projected to go anywhere from late in the lottery to the middle of the first round. George is two inches taller at 6-8, but there are questions about his “motor” and he’s projected anywhere from middle to late first round.

“I want to be more like a Tracy McGrady in his healthy form,” George said. “He’s got a body-type like me playing the two guard.

“I think I fit perfectly with the Bulls. They have a young team and they can use a wing that can stretch the defense.”