Who replaces McCollum’s production
Last season the Blazers decided to part ways with one of their star players in CJ McCollum. With the bold move of getting rid of one of their best players on the team, it showed that the front office had enough confidence in Simons to fill the void after giving him an extension.
True enough, McCollum was great playing alongside Lillard and complemented him well. He really never received credit for how well he performed in Portland as one of the better shooting guards in the league but the trade was necessary in order for the Blazers to move forward.
Now that McCollum has moved on, it gives Simons more minutes and more opportunities to make his mark, expect Simons to take full advantage. Also expect to see him unleash a full offensive arsenal that he uses to create his own shot including moves such as the midrange pull-up, the hesitation step back dribble and his side step.
It remains to be seen exactly what kind of player Simons will ultimately become, but at this point with Billups guidance and Lillard’s mentorship, the sky is the limit for him.