This star is already on the trading block right after joining his new franchise!
Jan 14, 2023; Portland, Oregon, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) dribbles the basketball during the second half against Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons (1) at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
The Boston Celtics aren’t done restructuring their roster. After a busy summer of moves to get under the second luxury tax threshold, the Massachusetts franchise continues to explore the trade market, particularly for Anfernee Simons.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, « the expectation persists that Boston will continue to welcome trade discussions involving Anfernee Simons from now until next season’s deadline on February 5th at 3 PM ET. » This situation confirms the precarious status of the 26-year-old combo guard in the Celtics‘ roster.
The Celtics are actively looking to trade Anfernee Simons 👀
Via @WindhorstESPN pic.twitter.com/ob8XE2LSy9
— CelticsUnite (@CelticsUnite18) July 9, 2025
A talented player but difficult to place
Simons arrives in Boston after being traded by the Portland Trail Blazers for Jrue Holiday. The former Blazers player comes off a solid season averaging 19.3 points, 4.8 assists, and 2.7 rebounds, shooting 42.6% from the field and 36.3% from three-point range in 70 games.
Despite these encouraging statistics, Fischer tempers expectations of seeing Simons traded quickly: « I really don’t have any suitors to tell you about right now, unfortunately. I’m not as optimistic about his chances of being traded before the year as I was with [Georges Niang]. Niang had a much smaller contract – $8 million compared to Simons’ $22 million. »
Simons’ offensive combo-guard profile isn’t in high enough demand for teams to rush to acquire him, knowing they’ll likely have to pay a premium to keep him beyond next season. With a $27.6 million contract for 2025-2026 and free agency status next summer, Simons represents a significant financial gamble.
For the Celtics, this situation is part of a transition season, with Jayson Tatum out for most of the campaign after his Achilles tendon rupture. Even though Jaylen Brown and Derrick White give the Celtics a chance at making the playoffs, nobody considers Boston a true contender without Tatum.
The organization led by Brad Stevens might therefore keep Simons early in the season, evaluate their playoff chances, and make a decision closer to the February deadline. This strategy would allow the Celtics to maximize their return on investment while keeping their options open.
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