Anfernee Simons may be the type of player the Miami Heat needs next to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo. On paper, Simons is the exact talent that would thrive next two to superstar players, even though he doesn't get nearly the respect he deserves for how good he is.
Would he be an attainable target for the Heat? That remains to be seen. Much of that will depend on what type of market there will be for the 27-year-old free agent. But, make no mistake, the Heat are already reportedly interested in the hometown kid.
"I think keep an eye on one name, Anfernee Simons. He's a free agent out there. If he's basically willing to go for the vet min and play out the year to restore his value, he'd fit in perfectly with this team"
Anfernee Simons could find his way back to where it all started in Florida
Simons grew up in Florida and played his high school and post-HS basketball in Florida before declaring for the NBA Draft in 2018. Originally drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers, Simons split time with the Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls last season.
Now a free agent, Simons will have the ability to sign with whatever team he wants. And after bouncing around since departing from the Blazers, there's reason to believe that he could be looking for a new home.
And this is a move that could make a lot of sense for both sides, especially if the money is right.
At somewhat of a crossroad, Simons is looking to get his career back on track, while the Heat will be looking for an offensively talented guard that could help take pressure off Giannis and Bam at times.
While Simons, especially at this point in his career, does have his weaknesses as a player, the Heat may be one of the few teams that could make it work.
With as much defensive "protection" as the Heat would have in their lineup next to Simons, he could truly thrive and focus on what he does best: putting the basketball in the hoop.
Anfernee Simons could be a missing piece next to Giannis and Bam
Even after the acquisition of Giannis, there are some very big holes in this Heat roster. Miami has the superstars, but they still very much need to fill in a capable supporting cast around them. Simons could fill the role of a high-volume guard who can handle the ball and score in bunches.
With Giannis and Bam, the Heat knows its defense is going to be top-tier. There are still questions about whether they'll have enough offense to emerge as a championship contender this season. But that's where an underrated addition like Simons could pay dividends.
If Simons is willing to take a prove-it deal with Miami, there is a path where he could emerge as a secret weapon option next to Giannis and Bam. And it would be quite a full-circle moment for the Florida kid.
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