The Portland Trail Blazers started the season with the expectation that guard Anfernee Simons would lead due to his offensive ability.
He accomplished just that on Saturday night in the Houston Rockets’ 104-98 victory, scoring a team-high 25 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter.
At the Toyota Center, Blazes coach Chauncey Billups told reporters, “It was incredible to see Ant make some shots and kind of carry us down the stretch.”
Although Simons has been mostly healthy, aside from missing two games recently due to illness and a third due to a sprained right hand, such nights have been uncommon.
Simons had a career low three-point shooting percentage (30%) and field goal percentage (37.8%) going into Saturday night, averaging 15.6 points.
The Blazers have suffered as a result. Now, Simons has five times scored twenty-four points or more. When he does, the Blazers are 4-1.
When he scores 20 points or less, they are 1-8. Simons gave the Blazers a night like that during Friday’s 116-88 loss to the Rockets. That evening, he finished with four turnovers and eight points on two of seven shots.
At Toyota Center on November 23, 2024, in Houston, Texas, Alperen Sengun #28 of the Houston Rockets defends while Anfernee Simons #1 of the Portland Trail Blazers shoots. (Image courtesy of Getty Images/Jack Gorman)Getty Pictures
Simons got off to a strong start on Saturday, scoring seven points in the opening quarter. But he missed three shots in the third quarter and failed to score. In the fourth, he made six of seven shots, resuming his aggressive play.
I’m pleased with him.Deni Avdija, a forward for the Blazers, told reporters, “Honestly.” In the previous game, he had some offensive difficulties. But he recovered. And it reveals a lot about the player, particularly their character. And I believe he shown his abilities today. It is hoped that he will continue to act aggressively. He is also a significant part of our offensive.
With Simons performing below his usual level, the Blazers (7-10) have been a little unexpected this season. Portland may play its way out of the Cooper Flagg sweepstakes if that were to alter permanently.
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Aaron J. Fentress | [email protected]|@AaronJFentress (Facebook), @AaronFentress (Instagram), and @AaronJFentress (Twitter)
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