Anfernee Simons Has Made Unique NBA History

The Portland Trail Blazers haven’t fared much better this season than last year.

As such, they’re a team to watch ahead of the trade deadline.

With that in mind, multiple teams might inquire about Anfernee Simons’ availability.

The combo guard has showcased his scoring prowess multiple times and recently joined a very exclusive list.

Legion Hoops (via Real App) reported that Simons has the seventh-most games with 30+ points without going to the free-throw line.

Anfernee Simons now has the 7TH most games in NBA history with 30 points and 0 free throw attempts.

Ethical hoops. (via @realapp_) pic.twitter.com/HwBKvpcG4X

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 7, 2025

He achieved that after scoring 36 points vs. the Detroit Pistons.

Simons knocked down 14 of 21 shots and 8 of 12 three-pointers, adding two rebounds and nine assists on the loss.

Of course, there are multiple ways to look at this.

On the one hand, it’s nice to watch someone play what some call ‘ethical hoops.’

Some fans have complained about the constant foul-baiting.

However, going to the free-throw line is also a skill that is practiced and used to be praised.

Perhaps the real issue here has to do with the referees.

The officials must officiate the game fairly, regardless of who’s getting the calls.

Players like James Harden, Joel Embiid, Trae Young, or Shai Gilgeous-Alexander usually get all the calls to go their way, even when the contact is marginal.

Others, like Simons, don’t get that benefit or superstar treatment.

It’s hard to think of a player taking 21 shots and not getting fouled even once.

The post Anfernee Simons Has Made Unique NBA History appeared first on The Cold Wire.