Bob Donnan – USA TODAY Sports
There are many talented perimeter scorers in the league, and teams are doing their best to load up on defenders who can keep up with them. The Los Angeles Lakers have struggled on the defensive end for a number of years, and will need to use this offseason to find more options on the perimeter. They have cap space and multiple draft picks to work with, and need to bring in players who are willing to compete on defense. Justin Anderson is one of the top wing defenders in the draft, and the Lakers should consider him at the end of the first round.
Anderson made a name for himself on defense in college, playing for one of the top defensive teams in the country. He has all the physical tools to continue being a great defender in the NBA, and the Lakers need a player like him on their roster. He is big and strong, yet quick enough to keep up with opposing players when playing on-ball defense. His wingspan allows him to contest shots, while his athleticism gives him very good recovery speed. He plays hard, and has the mindset to be a defensive stopper.
Perhaps even more impressive than his defensive attributes was the improvement of his outside shot last season. While not much of a shooter early on in his career, he worked hard and shot 45 percent from deep in his final year in college. While streaky, this percentage means that teams must respect him when on the perimeter, creating more space for his teammates. Three-and-D players are becoming more important, and yet the Lakers do not seem to have many who fit this description on their roster. Anderson will have to work on other parts of his offensive game, but his shooting and athleticism will allow him to contribute early on.
Anderson is another player who may not be a future star, but he can definitely be a big-time contributor. His outside shooting and defensive potential make him a very good prospect, especially for a team in need of help on the perimeter. The Lakers must improve their defense if they want to win more games, and Anderson would be a good fit for the team.
