The Boston Celtics could finally trade Anfernee Simons as the NBA’s trade window unofficially opens. Teams have been able to make deals for months, but Dec. 15 always marks the start of activity as players signed in the offseason become eligible to be moved. Boston has been shopping Simons since they acquired him, and the right move could quickly become available.
The 26-year-old guard is in the final year of his contract, but is not a fit with the Celtics. He is playing just 23.7 minutes per game as his scoring and playmaking opportunities have dipped. Boston wanted to move off of Jrue Holiday’s contract and knew Simon would have value as an expiring contract before the deadline. The Celtics' success has complicated matters, but it is clear the 6’3 guard isn’t long for Boston.
The front office has to pick a direction now. Many believed they would try to duck under the luxury tax, but the Cs are third in the Eastern Conference and have Jayson Tatum already playing one-on-one. Whether Boston wants to buy or sell, Simons will be in trade talks until he’s moved.
It’s finally time for the Celtics to trade Anfernee Simons
The 26-year-old’s $27.6 million salary is the key to the franchise making a blockbuster move. Teams will not shy away from his expiring money, and it is the easiest way for Boston to land a game-changing center to pair with Neemias Queta moving forward.
No trades were happening until Dec. 15, but the activity could quickly pick up. A handful of teams are jockeying for the number two seed in the West, and the East has never been more wide open. It feels like any franchise could make the NBA Finals, and Boston will certainly want to maximize their odds of getting back to the biggest stage.
Simons is a bucket. He is averaging 13.1 points, 2.5 assists, and 2.2 rebounds in 23.7 minutes per game so far this season. His shooting percentage of 43.3 percent is a bit worrisome, but his negative defensive box score plus-minus is a greater problem. The Celtics want shooters and defenders out there, which has made it difficult to get more minutes.
Tatum’s potential return could change everything for Boston. They certainly wouldn’t need a bench bucket-getter like Simons. It is on Brad Stevens to canvas the league and figure out if the Celtics are better off saving money or chasing a championship. Only their front office knows. Tatum’s return is the most important factor.
Boston likely shouldn’t risk it, but banners hang forever. It will be tough to hold back their superstar if the Celtics have a legitimate shot to win the East and get back to the NBA Finals for the second time in three seasons.
The Boston Celtics should trade Anfernee Simons in the best possible deal. He will walk this summer in free agency if not. Some team will offer him a significant payday, and it won’t be the Cs. They’d be better off getting something and cutting their losses. Sadly, that is always easier said than done.