One of the emerging talents in the NBA, Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons secures his spot on the list of the top 25 NBA players under age 25 entering the 2023-24 season. Coming in at No. 23, Simons possesses a combination of offensive skills and potential, making him a possible All-Star in the coming seasons.
Now entering his sixth year, Simons has steadily improved since coming into the league. At six-foot-three and 181 pounds, he embodies the modern archetype of a combo guard – a versatile player capable of contributing in multiple aspects on the offensive end.
Top 25 NBA Players Under 25: No. 23 – Anfernee Simons
Why Simons Makes the List
Simons is coming off the best season of his career. He averaged an impressive 21.1 points per game and demonstrated his scoring prowess and ability to step up when given opportunities. His capacity to create offense for himself and his teammates is evident in his 4.1 assists per game, showcasing his playmaking vision and court awareness.
Efficiency is a hallmark of Simons’ game and is one of the main components that makes him such an offensive weapon. His 45/38/89 shooting splits from last season reflect his multi-level scoring ability. Simons’ shooting accuracy allows him to contribute as a spot-up shooter and a player who can create his own shot off the dribble.
As showcased in the video, Simons is one of the league’s best three-point shooters. He’s capable of catching fire and singlehandedly changing the outcome of a game by himself. He’s an offensive difference-maker as a shooter and playmaker.
This recent season with the Blazers was a significant turning point in Simons’ career. With statistics indicating the best season of his young career, he has showcased his development and hinted at the bright future ahead. As he continues to refine his skills, learn from experienced players and coaches, and adapt to the evolving demands of the game, his growth trajectory remains on an upward curve. The following factors suggest that Simons’ game could evolve even further this upcoming season.
Can He Take the Next Step?
Simons, 24, was selected 24th in the 2018 NBA Draft out of IMG Academy. Interestingly, the Blazers’ emerging core of Simons, Scoot Henderson, and Shaedon Sharpe have all taken unconventional paths to the NBA. Henderson comes from the G League Ignite. Meanwhile, Sharpe technically comes from the University of Kentucky, although he never played there. All three players should benefit from gaining opportunity following the seemingly inevitable Damian Lillard trade after his recent trade request.
Simons, in particular, is a unique case with the Blazers. They are still guard-heavy with the promising trio. Simons is the true combo guard who can sometimes fill in for Henderson or Sharpe when needed. Simons will be relied on as one of the team’s true leaders. He has the most experience amongst the franchise’s new building blocks.
Additionally, Simons has always been overshadowed by Lillard, making him an under-the-radar star. They were still playing two players with overlapping skill sets as offensive-minded, undersized guards with Lillard and Simons. Portland previously had a similar problem with Lillard and CJ McCollum.
For Simons to ascend to an All-Star level player, he must take another jump next season. He’ll have to take over as a leader, go-to scorer, and playmaker responsible for initiating more offense. Simons’ size prevents him from being a great defender. However, he is one of the most underrated offensive threats and should only continue improving with increased experience and opportunity.
