Orlando Magic: Best candidates for 2018-19 NBA awards
By Chris Murch
Sixth Man of the Year: Jonathon Simmons
I’ve written in the past about how Jonathon Simmons can be an X-factor for Orlando this season. He has all the tools to be a good player in this league and with Orlando’s new “defense first” trend, Simmons fits right in.
Signing a free agent deal with Orlando after shining in the 2017 NBA Playoffs with the San Antonio Spurs, Simmons had an up-and-down season in 2017-18. Playing in 69 games, Simmons started 50 and averaged career highs in points (13.9), rebounds (3.5) and assists per game (2.5). It all looks good on paper, but Simmons was hit with the inconsistency bug and disappointed a bit.
It’s hard to blame him after being a G League player for most of his career prior to last season, but many expected more.
2018-19 can be a true breakout year for Simmons in a way not thought of before. He can become a premier second unit player for Orlando and provide spot first unit minutes as well. Simmons could be the sixth man that stays on the floor when the first unit players trickle back on. He can score, defend and at 28 years old, provides leadership and experience.
Simmons can be the Trevor Ariza of the Magic this season: shoot, defend, lead and provide toughness for a young team. If his offensive game can become more consistent, Simmons could become a Sixth Man of the Year candidate. He will be an important member of this team and in a new role, could see some hardware come his way.