Ariza replacement number two – Justin Anderson
If the Blazers want a readymade Ariza replacement on the defensive end, the Hulk-like Justin Anderson could be the answer. He isn’t offensively competent like Ariza, but he has the physical tools and toughness to match up with the league’s big wings.
There are no two-way wings available of Anderson’s size or bigger. If you are six-foot-six and bigger and you can play both sides of the ball, you are already on an NBA roster.
Anderson has bounced around to four different NBA teams in his five years in the league because of his lack of shooting and offensive creation.
Anderson is a devastating finisher at the rim, while also getting to the line frequently. He is an excellent rebounder too. His great steal and block rates are unfortunately brought down by a propensity to foul too often, but he is still a plus defender.
Anderson only played three games in the league this year, so if signed by a team for the end of season tournament, he would likely play out of his skin to try and secure a contract for next season too. He is only 26, and though not overly experienced, he had played meaningful minutes in a playoff series for the Dallas Mavericks in 2016.
Anderson has the tools and skillset to aid the Blazers on the defensive end. Though he is only a 30 percent shooter from three, he would be signed for his defense only.