Full Breakdown
Anfernee Simons Joins the Philadelphia 76ers on Two-Year Deal
7/3/2026, 2:56:15 AM
Simons Signs Two-Year Deal with the 76ers
Free-agent guard Anfernee Simons, 27, agreed to a two-year, $12.3 million contract with a player option for year two. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported the deal on July 2, 2026, after Simons selected Philadelphia over other interested clubs.
Roster Overhaul and Bench Needs
The signing follows a June trade that sent Paul George, first-round picks (2028, 2031) and second-round picks (2028, 2030) to Boston for former NBA Finals MVP Jaylen Brown. Philadelphia’s bench ranked in the league’s bottom three for points (27th) and three-point shooting (23rd-27th) last season, prompting the need for a proven scorer. The move was overseen by President of Basketball Operations Mike Gansey and adds to a backcourt featuring Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe and rookie Labaron Philon Jr.
Data & Statistics
Simons averages 14.9 points, 2.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game with a 38.1 % three-point rate (6.6 attempts). In 2025-26 he posted 14.2-14.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists and shot 38.5-44 % (38-39 % from three). He ranked sixth league-wide in three-pointers made by a reserve (130). The contract uses the remainder of non-taxpayer mid-level exception; the Sixers are $5.2 million over the luxury tax, $3.4 million below the hard cap, and have one roster spot open.
Impact on the Sixers
Simons adds a reliable bench scorer, addressing Philadelphia’s previous 32.4 points per game from reserves and its league-low 34.9 % bench three-point percentage. Improved depth could tighten the Eastern Conference race and enhance the team’s postseason prospects.
Official Statements
Team officials said Simons “will be a part of a talented Philadelphia backcourt” and that his signing “fills the void left by Quentin Grimes.” The front office noted the deal uses the remaining mid-level exception and reflects Gansey’s focus on high-value talent.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts note Simons’ defensive limitations—listed as a “defensive weak link”—and his 6-foot-2 frame, which may hinder perimeter guarding. A left-wrist fracture raises durability concerns, and critics argue the low-cost contract could limit future cap flexibility if he outperforms expectations.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources list Simons’ 2025-26 scoring as 14.2 or 14.3 points per game and his three-point shooting as 38.5 %, 39.5 % or 44 %. Bench ranking also varies, with reports placing the Sixers at 22nd, 23rd or 27th in three-pointers made.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Simons chose the 76ers over other suitors believing his fit is perfect with the revamped 76ers roster.” — Shams Charania
- “I’m told the Sixers are also trying to make a pitch to LeBron James along with the Warriors, Cavaliers and the Heat,” — Shams Charania
- “He will likely assume a sixth-man role, working with Philon for ball-handling duties when Maxey is off the court.” — Source 21
What’s Next
Philadelphia will finalize its roster before training camp, with the final roster spot and remaining cap space available for further moves. Simons is expected to report to preseason and help solidify the bench scoring the Sixers lacked last year.
