NBA Free Agency 2017: One signing every team should make

Cleveland Cavaliers: Jonathon Simmons

Watching the 2017 NBA Finals, it was clear just how overmatched the Cleveland Cavaliers were when up against the Golden State Warriors. Unlike in the 2016 Finals, they lacked the depth or star power necessary to keep the pace with a juggenaut like Golden State. However, the Cavaliers now have two courses of action that they could take this offseason. They could look to add a superstar via trade (a la Paul George or Carmelo Anthony), or they could add quality depth.

Considering that the latter would happen through free agency, that’s where we’ll look here and Jonathon Simmons is a player who would fit quite swimmingly with the Cavaliers. No, he’s not the type of player who’s going to be able to take over games with his shooting, or even his offensive ability as a whole. However, he’s the perfect guy for a team that’s in dire need of versatility and athleticism on the defensive end of the floor. In those terms, Simmons would come like three wise men to Cleveland, baring wonderful gifts.

In the past two seasons with the San Antonio Spurs, Simmons carved out a nice, sizeable role for himself by simply being willing to do the dirty work. He’s a plus defender without question that possesses the size and athletic traits to defend multiple positions well. What’s more, his time with the Spurs also bodes well for him as he’s learned to play smartly and within himself, as he’s not overly skilled. As the Cavaliers operate on a budget by necessity, he’d be a perfect signing to help address what they need to this offseason.