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Merry Christmas, Portland Trail Blazers fans! Today Blazer’s Edge is celebrating the holiday in the form of the worst Christmas Song ever written. The staff has compiled a list of gifts suitable for the team, and we’re running them down in 12 posts...with not a partridge or a leaping lord anywhere to be seen. We hope you enjoy the holiday and help us reflect on good wishes for the Blazers!
On the ninth day of Christmas, the fans give to the team...
Fast-Forward Simons
Anfernee Simons was a huge storyline for the Blazers in the first month of the season. Defenses have caught up to his wily ways lately and he’s finding the road harder, but every physical and mental indicator on the court says he’s going to be a game-changer. His shot comes quick and sweet. His aggression is off the charts. He can play on-ball or off. The only thing he lacks is experience.
With the clock running on Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, the Blazers need to win now. Their backcourt would be boosted to the moon if the team could feature 2022 Simons in 2020. One staffer put it, “I want two additional years of coaching and experience for him without him getting any older.” Bingo.
Santa may not bring two seasons under Simons’ tree, but here’s hoping the rest of this season (which is not likely to end in serious contention) becomes the canvas on which his growth gets painted. Whether it’s as a third guard or making a starting guard expendable, Simons may become the best young asset the Blazers have.