Justin Anderson, SF, Virginia
The prototypical ‘three-and-D’ wing, Justin Anderson is one of the best individual defenders in the entire draft and combines that with a vastly improved jumper that could allow him to be one of the steals of the draft.
Anderson has always had an NBA-ready body. Standing 6’6 with an impressive 6’11 wingspan and excellent speed and athleticism to boot, Anderson has all of the physical tools a team could want in a wing player. He is a lockdown defender who takes pride on that end. He has the strength and lateral quickness to guard three positions.
The one worry for Anderson had been his jump shot. However, he was one of the best shooters in the country in his junior season, knocking down 45 percent of his threes. The question now becomes whether this last season was an anomaly. He is also not a great shot creator for himself or others. He is an average passer and struggles to get his own shot in one-on-one situations.
Anderson likely won’t be a star, but he is exactly the type of role player the Lakers need. The Lakers can no longer afford to rely on Wesley Johnson at the small forward position. Anderson could step in and become a big piece of the team immediately.
CONTINUE: Five Underrated Prospects The Lakers Should Consider At 27 And 34
