Anfernee Simons joins a new roster and hopes he can leave his mark. With a new perspective in place, there's a chance it could lead to career accolades.
The sixth man plays a pivotal role for a basketball team, as they provide a boost in getting a team back into a game or pushing a game out of reach.
The Philadelphia 76ers may have found their sixth man in Anfernee Simons. The former Portland Trail Blazers guard joins a star-studded Philadelphia team that will need him to provide solid minutes while the starters get a rest.
Simons joined “Cousins with Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady” to talk about his new role on the team.
“Obviously the role is different," Simons said. “I’ve already competed at a high level with starters, and it’s just going to be even easier for me when I come into the game.”
The realization that his role isn’t diminished but altered already shows his growth as a player. He understands what an opportunity like this can do for a player of his caliber. The chance to play alongside some of the greats in the game is something no one can pass up. The sixth man is usually someone with high scoring ability, and Simons has that and more.
He could switch between the 1 and the 2 positions, as he has shown the ability to run the point. This can help with finding who best fits on the second unit. It also leaves a chance to rotate some starters in to find out how well the chemistry can be amongst the team. If Simons really wants to immerse himself in this new role, look no further than players like Manu Ginobili and JR Smith.
Both of these players played on championship teams and on occasion found themselves in the starting lineup. Simons could be an underrated gem with his size and influential playmaking.
What else could Simon provide to the team? We know he has the tools to be an all-around great player, but the biggest attribute he can add is selflessness. Just by accepting this chance could do more for him. We witnessed glimpses of it last season. In 49 games with Boston, Simons averaged 14.2 points with a 44% FG percentage in 24.5 minutes.
During the interview, Carter emphasized that Simons is built to be a key piece to the team. He went on to explain that many want to be the star without understanding what they can bring to the team.
Carter’s right; when you reach the professional level, everyone can do a little of everything, but only some can transcend their game to a level that results in wins. If Simons can score with efficiency that results in victories, there’s an opportunity for him to win Sixth Man of the Year.
