Ryan Anderson can play both forward positions but his lack of true position hurts his status. He's not big or strong enough at 6-9 230 to play power forward full time, but not nearly quick enough to play on the wings as a small forward full time. He might not have a position, but he is a basketball player. He has a terrific feel for the game and great fundamentals.

Ryan Anderson should be a good rebounder on the next level even though he's not big. He's a great passer for a big man. He can shoot really well and is deadly from the mid range area facing the basket. He's not great with his back to the basket, turning around and shooting the jumper, but he can improve. He's not a great natural athlete. He should be able to score fairly well in the NBA. Even though he is just 6-9, he has a Dirk Nowitski esque release point so his lack of height won't hurt his shot.

He shot the ball very well from the college 3, but might not be a great 3 point shooter in the NBA. He'll probably shoot the three at about a 30-33% clip which you'll take out of a power forward. His lack of athletism not only hurt him in the post, but on defense. Ryan Anderson will be easily posted up and easily blown by. He could drive off the dribble well in college, but that might not translate to the NBA. He's very consistent, but he's lack of athletism and natural position should make him a second rounder.

However, plenty of teams in the early to mid first round could take a chance on Ryan Anderson because he can stretch the defense and create mismatches against some forwards, especially if he bulks up a little, without taking away from his mobility and agility in the post. Remember, he is still very young and has time to become a better athlete, but it might not happen.

F Ryan Anderson
California
6-9 230
Soph

Best case: Shorter Troy Murphy

Worst case: Austin Croshere