From PhillyVoice · · 1m 50s
Sixers player preview: Will Anfernee Simons become an elite bench guard?
Anfernee Simons' three-point shooting could elevate Sixers' bench as LeBron James joins the team.
In brief
Anfernee Simons' three-point shooting could elevate Sixers' bench as LeBron James joins the team. Simons' elite three-point shooting can be a key offensive asset for the Sixers despite defensive weaknesses. Originally reported by PhillyVoice.
Simons' shooting prowess
Anfernee Simons is one of the NBA's most accomplished three-point shooters with a long history of starting.
“Anfernee Simons is one of the most accomplished three-point shooters in the NBA.”
Sixers' new roster
The Sixers acquired Jaylen Brown from Boston and LeBron James, creating a championship-caliber team.
Defensive concerns

Simons is one of the NBA's worst defenders due to size and focus issues.
“Anfernee Simons routinely grades as one of the worst defensive players in the NBA, thanks in large part to his lack of size and strength.”
Offensive impact
Simons can be a lethal three-point shooter from beyond the arc without needing to handle the ball.
“Anfernee Simons has typically functioned as an on-ball player shooting lots of pull-up three-pointers, but he can also spot up from well beyond the arc.”
Playoff role
The Sixers may rely on Simons for 20+ minutes in playoffs if the team's defense improves.
Team dynamics
Simons could develop a strong rapport with Joel Embiid, enhancing his offensive impact.
“Exactly how the Sixers divide Simons' minutes between initiating offense, operating in two-man actions with Embiid, spotting up for threes and running around screens will be an interesting subplot to monitor.”
Usage potential
Simons' role as a bench shooter could be more valuable than his ball-handling abilities.
“Anfernee Simons has a good mix of off-the-dribble scoring abilities, from long pull-up threes to some mid-range work and occasional pressuring of the rim.”
Defensive trade-off
The Sixers' defense may mask Simons' weaknesses if they improve team defense.
“If the Sixers struggle to get consistent stops as a team, it will be harder to envision Simons playing a role of remote significance in important games.”
Key question
Can Simons prove himself as one of the game's best bench guards with the Sixers' new roster?
Playoff readiness
Simons' offensive impact could be significant if the Sixers' defense improves.
Team chemistry
Simons' relationship with Joel Embiid could be crucial for his offensive effectiveness.
“He should develop a strong rapport with Embiid, as many guards before him have done, from Redick to Seth Curry to Maxey to Jared McCain.”
Roster depth
The Sixers have depth around Jaylen Brown, Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe.
Defensive limitations
Simons' defensive weaknesses could limit his role in playoff games.
“If Simons is a very bad defender, one of the NBA's worst, even, the Sixers can survive relying on his offense off the bench.”
Offensive versatility
Simons can spot up for threes and create scoring opportunities without heavy ball-handling.
Here's the gist
Simons' elite three-point shooting can be a key offensive asset for the Sixers despite defensive weaknesses.



