NBA: Ranking all 30 starting small forwards for 2018-19
19. Kyle Anderson, Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies could start Kyle Anderson at the 2 instead, but since Dillon Brooks is probably their best option there, “Slo Mo” should stick with his natural position at the 3. Given the Grizzlies’ four-year investment in him, he should easily earning the starting job here.
Anderson isn’t much of a scorer, athlete or 3-point marksman, but he’s a committed defender, smart playmaker and high-I.Q. player who can do a little bit of everything. He should be a natural fit with the Grit-N-Grind mentality.
Still, his “career year” with the Spurs entailed 7.9 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. He shot 52.7 percent from the field, but only converted 33.3 percent of his 3-pointers. Perhaps more minutes and an expanded role will help facilitate growth, but his development has unfolded at a pace not unlike his nickname.