The Los Angeles Lakers continued their pre-draft group workouts on Thursday with a group of players who the team may consider with their 27th or 34th overall picks in next month’s NBA Draft.
— Have you seen the ‘Bleed Purple and Gold’ phone case? —
Arguably the top prospect in Thursday’s group was Virginia small forward Justin Anderson, who spoke about the vibe and expectation when stepping on the Lakers’ practice floor according to Lakers Reporter Mike Trudell:
Prospect Justin Anderson on his workout: "You feel (the Lakers vibe). There's a certain expectation when you step into that (environment)."
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) May 28, 2015
Anderson also spoke about what he will bring to the team who drafts him in June via Trudell:
Anderson said his on-ball defense is his biggest strength, adding that he has a 7-foot wingspan to go with his athleticism.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) May 28, 2015
Viewed as one of the draft’s premier on-ball defenders, Anderson has a lot of tools teams are looking for in a wing. His massive wingspan makes up for measuring at just over 6’6 in shoes, slightly below average for a small forward. Anderson also shot an impressive 45 percent from three-point range last season, but scouts worry that it may not be sustainable as he struggled shooting after returning from a wrist injury and has continued his shooting struggles at the Draft Combine.
Anderson is viewed as a mid-to-late first round pick and could be available when the Lakers pick at 27, though most outlets have him going earlier. The Lakers may need to trade up a few spots if they hope to land him.
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Los Angeles Lakers(96) - Minnesota Timberwolves(103)