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Portland Trail Blazers: Anfernee Simons, the next big thing

By Stevie Cozens

PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 10: Anfernee Simons #24 of the Portland Trail Blazers dribbles against the Sacramento Kings in the first quarter during their game at Moda Center on April 10, 2019 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 10: Anfernee Simons #24 of the Portland Trail Blazers dribbles against the Sacramento Kings in the first quarter during their game at Moda Center on April 10, 2019 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /
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Portland Trail Blazers sophomore Anfernee Simons is poised for a breakout year. What has people so excited about this young guard?

Anfernee Simons was drafted 24th by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2018. Used sparingly in his first year, Simons has the chance this year to establish himself in the rotation. The Blazers are in a critical point in the development of their team. The duo of Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum has got them to the Conference Semis or Finals regularly, but they now need one more piece to get them over the hump. The twenty year old Simons could be just that for this team.

Drafted out of IMG academy after forgoing his college eligibility, Simons only played 20 games last year. Though he didn’t get many opportunities to showcase it, Simons flashed some key skills in his year in Portland.

Athleticism

Simons has great length and athleticism. At 6’4 he has a 6’9 wingspan and with quick feet he has a high ceiling on both ends. His ability to get to the rim and finish with both hands is a strong feature of his game. He has a quick first step, this ability will aid him in coming off screens or pulling up for shots from deep. A nice long stride enables him to use a variety of finishes around the rim. As he gets stronger he will be able to absorb more contact thus using his long frame to draw fouls and use his array of moves against bigger players.

Shooting

He is a confident shooter and loves coming off screens either to his left or right to finish in the mid range. He does have NBA range and has flashed his quick release in preseason. Simons ability to get his shot off quickly against NBA defences will depend on the separation he can get. With his slightly lower release he will need to use his quickness to get it off consistently. His confident stroke either off the dribble or the catch is an élite skill in the league if he can master it.

Play making

Simons has massive potential as a playmaker in the second unit for the Blazers. Being able to score and play make off the bench would give this team a massive leg up in the postseason. Simons already has the strong handle and can draw in defenders with his scoring threats. If he can use better shot selection and get his teammates involved more, he can be a legitimate secondary creator when guys like Lillard and McCollum sit.

Anfernee Simons is part of the next generation of Blazers. Alongside Zach Collins and Nassir Little they will form the core of this team for the forseeable future. Simons has the skills and ability to propel this team to new heights. With the regular season just around the corner, fans will now have the chance to see more of this exciting young prospect.