The Dallas Mavericks continue to show that they are one of the smartest organizations in the NBA, with the drafting of Justin Anderson from the University of Virginia with the 21st overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft. The Mavericks are at need in the guard position, but specifically a versatile guard who could possibly play forward if need be. Anderson is not only tough, but has great shooting potential, which is exactly what the Mavericks need. The fact that Anderson was still around at number twenty-one was a surprise because of the potential and the versatility he brings.
Anderson is listed as 6’6’’ 230 pounds and has proven that he has a natural ability to score with 97 three pointers and 873 career points during three seasons with the University of Virginia. Anderson played great defense for the Cavaliers as well racking up 84 career blocks, and 60 steals. Adding to his already impressive defensive numbers, Anderson brought in a total of 266 defensive rebounds averaging 88 per season. Duke University Guard Tyus Jones was still on the board when the Maverick’s turn was up, but the Mavericks need a guard with great defense as well as shooting ability, which is what they got in Anderson, but would be giving up in Jones. Jones possesses more overall skill with the ball than Anderson, but Dallas needs a guard who is tough, which Anderson has proven to be. Dallas will be able to mold Anderson into the player they need to fit into their system more easily than they could with Jones.
Overall, it was a great first round pick for the Dallas Mavericks. They needed to fill the guard position with Monta Ellis opting for free agency, and Rajon Rondo’s Dallas career having been on the fence since his arrival, but they needed to fill the position with a versatile player. If the Mavericks need Anderson to play forward there is no doubt he can do it, with his size, and the ability to drive the basket through traffic. Trades have been pretty hectic this draft, and there is always the possibility of Anderson being traded, but I do not see that happening. Justin Anderson was a great pick for the Dallas Mavericks.
