Philadelphia needs Anfernee Simons more than Jaylen Brown right now. The Sixers sit at 6-1, yet the former Celtics guard is doing the heavy lifting when the offense stalls. Hardwood Houdini reported that Simons has been the key to their recent wins while Brown struggles to find his rhythm. Brown has not been terrible, but he has had bad games that cost the team momentum. Simons steps up when the pressure mounts, and that difference is showing in the box scores.
Shooting From Deep
The last three games were won by narrow margins, often just five points. Those close calls came down to Simons hitting shots from beyond the arc. He scored 19 points against the Hornets on Saturday night, including five three-pointers. Sports Illustrated noted that Simons is hitting 59.3 percent of his triples over his last three outings. That kind of shooting is exactly what the team needed to close out tight games. Brown was asked to do more on defense and in spot-up roles, which has slowed his adjustment. Simons just had to shoot, and he delivered.
Minutes And Health
Keeping stars fresh is the top priority for the front office this year. The team plans to limit LeBron James and Joel Embiid to around 30 minutes a game early on. “My understanding is Lebron James, Joel Embiid – the hope is within the first few weeks of the season limit them to around 30 minutes a game,” ESPN’s Shams Charania said. With James and Embiid sitting out back-to-back games, the bench has to carry the load. Jaylen Brown is questionable for upcoming matchups due to a left patella issue. If he misses time, Simons becomes even more critical to the win column.
Brown thrived in Boston when he was the second option with a massive role. He cannot easily compromise his status to fit a tertiary scoring role in Philadelphia. Simons adapted quickly because the job was clear from day one. The Sixers will need that consistency to stay at the top of the East.
