Anfernee Simons trade rumors gets important twist for Celtics

The Celtics will have to move more than just Anfernee Simons.

Anfernee Simons Portland Trail Blazers
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Anfernee Simons trade rumors gets important twist for Celtics originally appeared on The Sporting News

When there's smoke, there's typically fire. According to many reports, the Boston Celtics are looking to move on from Anfernee Simons. Brad Stevens is still attempting to get under the luxury tax, allowing his team to make the necessary moves in the future when Jayson Tatum returns. 

While he's done what he's needed to do early on, trading Simons would be a step in the right direction to accomplish exactly what he wants. 

And according to a recent report from Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, it sounds like that's the plan. However, Mannix also noted that while the Celtics are looking to trade him, they might also have to attach some assets to get off his deal.

“He’s making about $26 million this year on the last year of his contract … which means he’s probably going to be looking for a big deal in the summer of 2026...When I’ve talked to other executives around the league, they’re telling me the Celtics are looking to deal Anfernee Simons, but the market for him is not that great,” Mannix said. “He’s a good scorer, but he’s a minus defensive player.”

“The sense I’m getting right now is (that) if the Celtics want to move off of Anfernee Simons, they’re gonna have to attach a draft pick to him. Now, maybe that means a couple of second-round picks.”

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It's a bit strange that Simons doesn’t have the type of market that some would expect. 

He's still a young guard who can go out and get 25 a night, which isn't common in the league. 

However, for whatever reason, players like him haven’t had the most value in recent years. Teams are looking for more than just a smaller guard to go out and score, which is likely hurting the Celtics in this situation.

Category: Basketball