The substitute point guard position has been one of the main points of debate in Portland when it comes to roster construction. Anfernee Simons emerged as a potential candidate since joining the team in 2018 although he never enjoyed any regularity as a replacement for Damian Lillard, being used numerous times as ‘2’.
However, the appointment of Chauncey Billups as head coach has opened up a new conception within the Blazers system. The coach has shared his desire to apply a more dynamic game based on the rhythm, the movement of the ball and the distribution of offensive tasks.
In turn, Billups is committed to offering Simons greater prominence in the game from the role of point-guard. A challenge that the 22-year-old player has accepted with great enthusiasm and optimism. «I want CJ [McCollum] y Ant [Simons] play as a substitute point guard, “said the head coach. I’ve talked to Simons a lot about it. He can play a lot of minutes as a point guard from the bench, you know, directing the show.»
In addition to the very alternatives he would bring to the game, the Blazers will seek to closely evaluate the response of the guard to this increased responsibilities. Simons could become a free agent next summer if the Blazers don’t pass him the qualifying offer of $ 5.7 million for the 2022-23 season.
According to the medium The Athletic, the player’s agent, Bill Duffy, and the Blazers have yet to meet to discuss a possible extension to his rookie contract, but negotiations are expected to kick off before October 18, the deadline for signing such an extension. “I don’t know anything about it,” Simons admitted. I’m focused on the season. I know it will be a great season for me, so I am not worried about it. My priority is to go out and play well. “
(Cover photo by Steph Chambers / Getty Images)