The NBA Free Agency is looming upon us as several budding stars of the league are staring right at a massive payday. Anfernee Simons is one such emerging star whose sky-high potential has put the league on notice. In a season where success was hard to come by, his galvanizing rise to notoriety has been nothing short of jaw-dropping.

After Damian Lillard’s season-ending injury and his comrade CJ McCollum’s being traded to the New Orleans Pelicans, the Blazers were on a downward trajectory. The emergence of Simons, however, spells a bright future for the Rip City. The Florida native broke through last season, enabling the Trail Blazers to realize that there is light on the horizon.

Anfernee Simons is now set to hit the NBA free agency as a restricted free agent. The Blazers wouldn’t want to part ways with the talented guard and are strongly expected to retain his talents. That, however, will cost them big bucks. Many executives around the league believe that Simons could fetch a four-year, $80-plus million contract extension.

All Anfernee Simons did last season was boost his valuation. Therefore, this comes as no surprise. He showcased his offensive prowess in his last 32 games as a starter, averaging 22.8 points, 5.9 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game. His shooting percentages were also remarkable, as he shot 45.7% from the field and 41.7% from beyond the arc.

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The Blazers have already been making moves this offseason as they traded for Jerami Grant. Simons’ future in Portland will be determined by the franchise. However, considering the strides he made last season, the Blazers would be unwise to let the young gun walk.

Anfernee Simons showed clear signs of brilliance in his 43-point outing against Trae Young and the Hawks

While Anfernee Simons was a standout last season, his breakout performance came against the Atlanta Hawks, when he detonated for 43 points. With both Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum sidelined, it was supposed to be an evening dominated by Trae Young. That certainly unfolded as he erupted for a career-high 56 points. However, it wasn’t enough to propel the Hawks towards the victory.

The Blazers were able to dodge Trae Young’s offensive outburst with a 136-131 victory, with Simons leading the charge with a 43-point outing. Simons registered a new career-high with his incredible performance. But the situations under which he delivered made the occasion all the more memorable and special.

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Simons disclosed in his post-game interview that his grandfather died of cancer the night before the game. He refused to take credit for his extraordinary effort, claiming that the entire credit goes to his grandfather.

The guard was in his bag the whole game. He stayed guns blazing throughout the game, putting the league on notice of his terrifying potential. It will be intriguing to witness how Anfernee Simons performs next season.