The Dallas Mavericks Select A.J. Hammons With the 46th Pick

In the 2016 NBA Draft, the Dallas Mavericks selected A.J. Hammons with the 46th overall pick in the draft.

After trading their first round pick a few December’s ago in the Rajon Rondo trade, Dallas did not possess a first round pick in this draft. Armed with just the 46th pick in the draft, Dallas decided to draft player that will compete for a spot in the rotation from day one.

At the Mavericks press conference before the draft, GM Donnie Nelson said they were excited for the pick.

Donnie Nelson opens his press conference saying the @dallasmavs are "pretty excited about (pick) 46."
— Earl K. Sneed (@EarlKSneed) June 23, 2016

He also shot down any speculation about possibly a draft-and-stash player or trading out of the second round all together but talking about drafting a “real player.”

Donnie Nelson says the NBA Draft is "really deep in the second round," and the @dallasmavs are going to get "a real player" at 46.
— Earl K. Sneed (@EarlKSneed) June 23, 2016

With players such as Ben Bentil and Gary Payton II still on the board, Dallas selected A.J. Hammons out of Purdue.

Hammons played all four years at Purdue and averaged 15 points, 8 rebounds and over 2 blocks a game. The big man was considered first round talent by many, but found himself slipping to the Mavericks at 46. Standing at 7’0″ and 250 pounds, Hammons will be a presence in training camp to watch down low.

Hammons will come in right away and compete for minutes at the center position with Salah Mejri and a potential free agent center that Dallas could bring in. Earning Rick Carlisle’s respect will be a tough task, but the big man could make an impact right away.

Next: Big Trades Help the Conley to Dallas Rumors

Stay tuned for a more in-depth analysis on the draft pick.