Anfernee Simons has not scored like fans hoped, but that struggle might save the Philadelphia 76ers from making a costly mistake. The guard signed a two-year deal as a free agent with big expectations to fill the sixth-man role. So far, his numbers look weak, yet the team likely keeps him because other buyers see the same flaws. A trade would require a partner willing to take on a player who might leave after just one more season.
According to The Sixer Sense, Simons tallies only nine points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists each night. These are hardly inspiring numbers for the most important player outside the starting five. His track record suggests his stats will climb back to the mean soon. Teams looking for a trade target usually want a player on a hot streak or a star in the making. Simons offers neither right now, which lowers his market value and keeps him in Philadelphia.
The Contract Trap
The structure of Simons’ deal makes a trade very difficult to pull off. He has a player option for the 2027-28 season, meaning he can walk away when his current deal ends. The Sixer Sense notes that teams will essentially treat him as a one-year rental. Since he is poised for a more lucrative payday, he is bound to decline that second-year option. This reality scares off potential trade partners who do not want to give up draft picks for a short-term fix.
Philly could lose the optionality they have with Simons if they try to move him now. It would be great to extract assets, but given the team’s current direction, it simply makes more sense to keep him. The 76ers need the kind of production Simons provides right now more than they need a future pick. The trade engine is not solely within their control, and other teams must be comfortable dealing for a rental with a slow start.
Bench Needs and Clutch Time
Philadelphia has the lowest-scoring bench in the league, and their three-point shooting ranks among the worst. It is clear the 76ers badly need the spacing Simons offers. The Sixer Sense points out that rookie guard Labaron Philon Jr. is not yet ready to step up and assume his post. Without Simons, the second unit lacks a reliable scoring threat who can stretch the floor. Keeping him ensures the team does not dig a deeper hole during games.
The team also faces issues with how they finish games. An 8-0 record in crunch-time games marks them as flawless, yet this is not entirely positive. LeBron James said the group lacks a panic button in close games. Frequently, the roster must dig out of deficits to secure victory. This pattern will exhaust the team as the season wears on, making every bench point more critical.
Why Patience Pays Off
Although Simons could depart after this season, the immediate pursuit of a championship comes first. Retaining him while he establishes his rhythm will serve the 76ers far better.
For now, the 76ers need not overthink this situation. The team remains seated atop the East with nine wins and just two losses. While they must learn to dominate games earlier, Simons supplies the necessary depth to achieve that. Per The Sixer Sense, the team’s immediate championship goal takes precedence over long-term asset accumulation.
