The Philadelphia 76ers have high expectations for Anfernee Simons after inking him to a two-year deal as a free agent. So far, he has been more than serviceable in his role as the nominal sixth man for the team, but his production still leaves a lot to be desired. As of writing, he is averaging just nine points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists a night –– hardly inspiring numbers for their most important player outside of the starting five.
Simons' track record suggests that his numbers will soon climb up into the mean. But for now, at this rate, what was widely believed as a prime trade target for teams (and a trade candidate for the 76ers) might end up not commanding as much interest in the market as expected. Obviously, Philly will stand to benefit if they are forced to stick with the combo guard.
The 76ers are increasingly likely to stick with Anfernee Simons
Given the way Simons' contract is structured (two years with a player option for the 2027-28 season), teams will essentially be treating him as a one-year rental. After all, he is poised for a more lucrative payday anyway, so he is bound to decline that option for the second year of his current deal.
As a result, the 76ers could very well lose the optionality they have with Simons. It would be great to extract assets from him, but given this team's current direction, it simply makes much more sense to just keep him for as long as possible.
Philly has the lowest-scoring bench in the league, while their three-point shooting ranks among the worst among all teams. It is as clear as day that the 76ers badly need the kind of production Simons provides. To further drive home the point, rookie guard Labaron Philon Jr. is not yet ready to step up to the plate and assume his post.
Of course, the 76ers would love to see Simons get back to his usual numbers for real, actual basketball reasons. While the temptation to try to get some assets for him via trade will get strong if his production increases, that engine is not solely within their control. Other teams will have to be comfortable dealing for a rental player who has had a slow start so far.
To wit, the 76ers need not overthink this. Anfernee Simons may be a flight risk after this season, but the team's immediate championship goal takes precedence. And for that reason, they will be much better off keeping him in the fold.
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