Soaring Down South
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2018 NBA Draft: 5 Under-the-Radar Options for Atlanta Hawks

By Chris Guest

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Anfernee Simons #39 talks to the media during the NBA Draft Combine Day 1 at the Quest Multisport Center on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Anfernee Simons #39 talks to the media during the NBA Draft Combine Day 1 at the Quest Multisport Center on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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SPRINGFIELD, MA – JANUARY 14: Anfernee Simons (Photo by John Jones/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
SPRINGFIELD, MA – JANUARY 14: Anfernee Simons (Photo by John Jones/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Anfernee Simons

A natural, fluid athlete, Anfernee Simons took an interesting path to make it to the NBA.

Simons eschewed the college circuit, instead opting to join IMG Academy, a private boarding school that focuses on individuals who are looking to join the world of professional sports.

At the NBA Draft Combine as well as various pre-draft workouts, Simons has shown quick-twitch athleticism as well as latent scoring ability that should play up in the modern NBA.

Though he still has plenty of room for growth and added muscle on his 6-foot-3, 183-pound frame, Simons would fill a need for the Atlanta Hawks if (or when) current starting point guard Dennis Schröder departs the team.

Simons could simultaneously develop his body and game while serving as the future focal point of Atlanta’s offense from the backcourt

Right now, however, it is unlikely that Simons would be able to come in and immediately take the keys to the offense, as he has been labeled as more of a two guard or combo guard in this class, as his playmaking and passing ability still needs work.

Still though, Simons is seemingly underrated due to his lack of college experience, which should not impact the Hawks decision-making process, as they need talent first and foremost with little though to fit or how long it will take to develop the player. Rebuilding gives you a little freedom on that front.