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Bill Simmons Praises Pat Riley, Heat For Landing Hidden Gem

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Joshua Rosenblum | Last updated Jul 2, 2025 10:34 PM ET

In a recent podcast posted on Wednesday night, Bill Simmons lauded the Heat's strategic moves to begin the NBA offseason, particularly highlighting the acquisition of Italian sharpshooter Simone Fontecchio.

In a sign-and-trade acquisition that was reported by ESPN's Shams Charania on Tuesday night, the Heat shipped away Duncan Robinson in return for Fontecchio.

Despite many Heat fans and players reeling from the move, Simmons is praising Heat president Pat Riley and the rest of the front office for landing a hidden gem in Fontecchio.

Simmons expressed admiration for Riley's ability to turn expiring contracts into valuable pieces, noting, “Of course, Miami gets Fontecchio. I like that guy. Miami's just adding guys that I really like. They got Jakucionis. They turned Duncan into an expiring in Fontecchio. They have the Rozier expiring. They've mobilized some assets that are all expirings for something.”

Simmons' strong endorsement for the Heat's strategic maneuvering underscores Riley's remarkable ability to get quality deals done.

After being heavily criticized for missing out on premier free agents such as superstar forward Kevin Durant, Simmons belief in Riley and the Heat's vision signals optimism about the team's direction.

Fontecchio, 29, brings size and versatility to a Heat team that struggled mightily on the defensive end last season.

Despite having small roles to begin his NBA career, he has shown flashes of brilliance, eclipsing the 20-point mark in two of his games played against the Heat in 2024-25.

Simmons' endorsement for Fontecchio reflects a positive outlook for the Heat as the team navigates a challenging offseason following the departure of Jimmy Butler.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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