Houston Rockets: Three defenders the team can add via trade
By T.A. Mock
Jonathon Simmons, SG/SF, Orlando Magic
After going undrafted in 2012 out of the University of Houston, Jonathon Simmons bounced around the G-League (then D-League) before finally catching on with the Spurs in 2016. He provided some serious energy off the bench for them as he slowly worked himself into a 3-and-D guy.
His first season in San Antonio saw him shoot 38% from three and 50% overall from the field. That year saw him average over 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists per 36 minutes. The 2016-17 season saw Simmons take a small hit to his overall production and efficiency but, he remained an extremely solid defender for the Spurs. You’ll likely remember his play against James Harden in the 2017 playoffs.
His two-year play with the Spurs garnered him a three year, $20 million deal with the Orlando Magic. Simmons found a larger role with the Magic than he ever did with the Spurs and he proved to be worth it. He averaged over 17 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists per 36 minutes.
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He provided great defense as well as an uptick in his offensive ability. However, Simmons is a part of a very crowded Magic team. Which is a strange concept as the Magic are a bottom dwelling team. Yet, they are paying more money to younger players who could develop for them.
Simmons could likely be had for a decent price. He would add terrific defense to the Houston Rockets. Defense that can legitimately cover four positions at a high level. He also has a burgeoning offensive game that can slash and shoot from the outside.
Just imagine the energy and passion he and fellow Houstonian, Gerald Green, can add to this team. Take a second and imagine the hype from the crowd when these two get going. Adding Simmons would be a win on all levels.
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The Houston Rockets will be adding defensive depth. Any of these three guys will do just that with varying offensive potential from the three of them. Simmons looks like the clearcut option for this team to go with but, all three will provide what this team needs in order to take down the rest of the Western Conference en route to the NBA Finals.