Anfernee Simons's transition to a pure bench sparkplug defined this erratic 19-game stretch, resulting in a wildly inconsistent pendulum of microwave scoring and total disappearing acts. When his jumper caught fire, he was an absolute offensive wrecking ball. Look at 10/27 vs NOP, where he erupted for 25 points on six made threes, generating a massive +21.0 impact score through sheer shot-making volume. However, when the shots stopped falling, his utility plummeted. During a brutal outing on 11/16 vs LAC, Simons went completely scoreless in 12 minutes, resulting in a disastrous -19.7 impact score because he failed to contribute any meaningful defensive resistance or playmaking to offset his cold hands. Even on nights where he tallied decent point totals, poor shot selection and a lack of ball movement often sank his value. Despite scoring 12 points on 10/26 vs DET, he posted a dreadful -8.2 impact score because his inefficient 5-for-13 shooting and zero assists actively stalled the second unit. Ultimately, Simons is operating as a classic feast-or-famine reserve who lives and dies entirely by his jump shot.

Anfernee Simons's midseason stretch was defined by a frustrating shooting slump that suddenly mutated into a blistering hot streak. During the 12/27 vs IND matchup, poor shot selection dragged him down to a dismal -10.4 Impact score as he clanked his way to just eight points. Without a falling jumper, his inability to create for others leaves a glaring void on the floor. He completely reversed his fortunes the very next night on 12/28 vs POR, generating a robust +8.4 Impact score despite scoring a modest 13 points. He salvaged his minutes by providing crucial non-scoring value through locked-in defensive effort and relentless hustle. The true apex arrived on 01/06 vs CHI. Simons drained eight three-pointers for 27 points to post a massive +18.8 Impact score. That pure offensive eruption highlighted exactly how lethal he becomes when he stops forcing the issue and simply lets it fly.