Conclusion
Anderson’s looks like a really good role player, but that’s probably not what the Suns want.
Ryan McDonough has stated his desire to draft the best player available. While there are a couple of different ways to interpret that particular piece of wisdom, the generally accepted connotation is either the guy with the highest upside, or the best ability to contribute immediately.
Offensively, Anderson doesn’t fit either of those criteria. Defensively he has the tools to be an absolute nuisance and the ace-in-the-hole against the Kevin Durants of the world.
Report: #NBADraft SG-SF Justin Anderson is like #Grizzlies SG-SF Tony Allen with a jumpshot.
— Kyle Cohen (@kylecohenNBA) June 7, 2015
Yet the lack of need at the three spot might be too much for Anderson’s particular skill set to overcome, particularly when he still has very real flaws on D.
His shaky ball handling skills necessitate that Anderson goes to a team that can put a defense in rotation. The Suns are lacking both the shooting and savvy to provide Anderson with those advantages.
If he falls into the second round, Phoenix will have an easy decision on its hands, but much like Anderson’s odds of maintaining his suddenly pristine jump shot at the pro level, it’s unlikely.
Next: Chris McCullough: Phoenix Suns 2015 Draft Profile