Rumors suggesting the Portland Trail Blazers refused to deal Anfernee Simons for Aaron Gordon at this year’s trade deadline had many a fan baying for Neil Olshey’s blood. Gordon, who was subsequently sent to the Denver Nuggets for a collection of players and a pick, ironically played a major role in the Blazers’ earlier than expected 2021 playoff exit.
At the time, Olshey, Portland’s President of Basketball Operations, clearly saw something in the 6’3 guard, despite him falling out of the rotation as the March 25 deadline approached. Fortunately, by the playoffs, Simons was an integral part of the Blazers roster, providing instant offense off the bench while helping quell the impact of opponent perimeter players.