The Boston Celtics’ Recent Acquisition
The Boston Celtics find themselves in a pivotal position following their recent acquisition of guard Anfernee Simons from the Portland Trail Blazers, a move that saw them part ways with veteran player Jrue Holiday. With Simons on a $26.7 million contract for the upcoming season, the Celtics must deliberate on their next steps.
Options for the Celtics
The Celtics can either retain Simons, allowing him to contribute as a primary scorer while star player Jayson Tatum is sidelined, or pursue trading him to further reduce their salary obligations.
Reports suggest that the Celtics are leaning toward the trading option, as shared by Brian Windhorst on ESPN’s The Hoop Collective podcast. Windhorst indicated that several teams are aware the Celtics are exploring trade scenarios for Simons, although the feasibility of such trades remains uncertain.
Brad Stevens’ Praise for Simons
Celtics President Brad Stevens recently praised Simons, highlighting his impressive scoring ability and skill in making tough shots. He pointed out that at just 26 years of age, Simons has consistently averaged around 20 points per game over the past three seasons.
“His potential for improvement is significant,”
Stevens noted, suggesting that Simons could further enhance his performance.
Financial Strategy and Future Moves
In light of their financial strategy, the Celtics are aiming to cut costs. The recent trades involving Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis have allowed the team to navigate below the salary cap’s second apron, potentially saving them close to $200 million in future payroll and tax penalties. Further trading Simons might even position them below the primary apron.
Roster Needs and Challenges
With the recent departures of Porzingis and Luke Kornett, coupled with uncertainty around Al Horford’s future, the Celtics find themselves in dire need of strong frontcourt players. Thus, if they decide to trade Simons, they will likely target a center to stabilize their roster. However, executing this trade could prove challenging.
As such, it remains plausible that the Celtics could choose to initially keep Simons on the roster, monitoring the situation until the trade deadline approaches later in the season.
