Atlanta Hawks: 3 Bold Predictions for Justin Anderson in 2018-19

Justin Anderson Will Average 14 Points Per Game

Obviously, offense isn’t the reason the former 76er was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 2015. Quite frankly, the Atlanta Hawks didn’t trade for his offensive abilities either.

However, due to the makeup of the Hawks current roster, he will have plenty of chances to improve on offense. Also, it’s important to remember that Atlanta’s new head coach in Lloyd Pierce is quite familiar with Anderson.

Pierce served as the assistant coach in Philadelphia during Anderson’s two years with the 76ers. The fact that Pierce is familiar with Anderson means a lot.

The 24-year-old will receive some playing time assuming he is healthy. While playing with the Sixers the right-handed guard struggled to find a role due to an overcrowded backcourt and his inability to shoot from three.

Nevertheless, he won’t have to worry about hiding in the shadows of Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, Robert Covington or J.J. Redick this year. Playing on a young Hawks team will allow the 2015 draft pick to attempt more shots and gain plenty of confidence.

Last season, the three-year guard out of Virginia averaged 6.2 points per game, while averaging 13.7 minutes a game. This year’s Hawks team will have fewer expectations than the 76ers team last season, which will allow the 6-foot-6 guard to develop.