The Toronto Raptors are adding a G League veteran as the team prepares for the final month of the season. According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Toronto has signed point guard Kobi Simmons to a 10-day contract. Simmons has spent this season with Toronto’s G League affiliate, Raptors 905. In those games, the 27-year-old is averaging 15.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game.
Since joining the league as an undrafted free agent in 2017, Simmons has played 38 total NBA games with three teams–the Memphis Grizzlies, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Charlotte Hornets. In those games, Simmons has averaged 5.3 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.
Before signing Simmons, the Raptors had signed Jahmi’us Ramsey to two separate 10-day contracts, with his second one expiring today. With this transaction, it appears Toronto has moved on from him after seven games played.
Toronto Raptors Adding Point Guard on 10-Day Contract
How Kobi Simmons Can Help Toronto
The 23-48 Raptors will not make a playoff appearance this season. Still, this is a good time for the team to play the guys they have to determine who deserves a spot next season. Right now, the Raptors are in desperate need of backcourt depth. Currently, the team’s starting point guard, Immanuel Quickley (personal), has not played since March 17. Furthermore, rookie D.J. Carton has been out since March 5 with an ankle injury. In their absence, Simmons provides depth at the point guard position.
Kobi Simmons Can Be a Diamond in the Rough
Despite not having much NBA experience, Simmons has shown flashes of potential in his career. At 6’5″, the Georgia native has good size for a point guard. Additionally, he is athletic and quick enough to be a solid defender in the NBA. His offensive game is what makes Simmons stand out, however. Simmons is a shifty player who can score from virtually anywhere on the court. Plus, his shotmaking ability is enticing. If given a regular opportunity, Simmons could be a good rotational piece in the league.
The Last Word
Simmons is an interesting pickup for the Raptors. Although he is already 27 and has spent most of his career in the G League, there is a lot of promise in his game. He had a good season with Raptors 905 and is deserving of an opportunity to showcase his talents in the NBA. For now, it is unknown how often Simmons will play on his 10-day contract. With Quickley’s return timetable still unknown, there is a possibility Simmons will crack the team’s rotation immediately.
The Raptors have 22 days remaining before their season officially ends. Because of this, there is a chance Simmons will stick with the team for the rest of the season. It will be interesting to see what Simmons can do with the Raptors on his new contract.
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