Timberwolves: Kyle Anderson was the most underrated pickup this offseason
The Minnesota Timberwolves made a lot of moves, both front office, and roster-wise. One move that’s flown under the radar, not only around the NBA but Minnesota as well, was the addition of Kyle Anderson.
Anderson has been around the block for quite some time now, and while he’s not going to do too much or drop 30 on any given night, he does bring consistency and winning basketball. The former UCLA star was selected by the San Antonio Spurs in 2014.
He’s been a staple of winning basketball for one of the best franchises in NBA history and part of the Memphis Grizzlies’ success.
Anderson’s production has been pretty steady since that 2014 season. When he’s averaged close to 20 minutes or more per game, he’s consistently put up similar numbers. You can expect around eight points, five rebounds and good defense.
You’d like to see him shoot better, but that’s not part of his game, and some of that has to do with his shoulder injuries.
Here’s a look at his jump shot. It’s a little unorthodox, but you’ll also notice his slow style of play. That’s because Anderson, or “Slo Mo” as some call him, plays at a different pace than most players.
Because he plays slowly, it allows him to have more success because other NBA players aren’t used to it. It’s like when a pitcher comes in and throws 70 MPH. It’s more difficult for hitters sometimes because it’s a different speed.
Defensively, Anderson brings it every night and will be key in late-game situations or even for the second unit. Losing Patrick Beverley hurts the defense, but gaining Rudy Gobert and Anderson will make up for it and then some.
Not only does Anderson bring leadership, defense and stability, but the Timberwolves took away one of the Grizzlies’ key players. Anytime you can pry a talented player away from another team within your conference – you do it.
The former first-round pick played a helping hand in the Grizzlies landing the second seed in the West last year.
Anderson will be one of the most important players this season for the Timberwolves, and because of all the moves Minnesota has made this offseason, the addition of the UCLA star has gone under the radar.