Celtics Might Commerce Anfernee Simons, However Why?

Anfernee Simons turned a Boston Celtics participant mere weeks after they signed him with the Portland Trail Blazers in alternate for Jrue Holiday.

Now, an NBA insider verified that Boston is purchasing Simons, however it’s unclear if a deal will happen. The Celtics are intently evaluating his worth to the group, particularly with the encircling considerations about his damage historical past.

Boston is Considering Simons’ Durability

Taken twenty fourth general in 2018, Simons was sluggish to mature however has developed right into a constant offensive man. According to Bleacher Report, his 2023-24 marketing campaign set the profession excessive for scoring, averaging 22.6 factors and 5.5 assists per contest. He additionally shot a formidable 38.1% on three-pointers over the past 4 seasons.

Still, there’s sturdiness to think about. Simons performed over 70 video games in a season simply as soon as, and he is spent appreciable time on the shelf in current seasons with thumb and knee accidents. He missed 36 video games in 2023–24, creating extra doubt concerning his availability in a grueling playoff push.

Tatum’s Absence Forces Celtics to Explore Roster Changes

The Celtics have quite a lot of weapons for an NBA championship repeat. However, Tatum’s damage occurred, and Boston couldn’t escape the semifinal curse towards the New York Knicks.

In flip, Boston launched necessary veterans Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis. President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens seems to be guiding the group towards strategic rebuilding as an alternative of a full-scale teardown.

Stevens stated that it is “unlikely” for Horford to return to Boston.

Frontcourt Holes Leave Celtics Shallow within the Paint

With Tatum injured, Porziņģis departed, and Horford on the verge of departure, Boston’s entrance line is dreadfully skinny. Its current core of Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard is an effective perimeter threesome, however would not have dimension or presence down low.

According to Brian Windhorst of ESPN on his Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective podcast (through Real GM), some groups are attempting to commerce for Simons.

Dealing with Simons would offer the Celtics with a wanted huge. If that does not occur, head coach Joe Mazzulla is perhaps left to begin the season enjoying small ball, trusting in athletic wing gamers that might expose them at occasions towards faster, stronger bigs.