Anfernee Simons in Trade Talks as Celtics Navigate Tax and Playoff Aspirations
Fresh off an impressive performance that saw him as the Boston Celtics’ leading bench scorer in a 103-95 victory against the Indiana Pacers, Anfernee Simons finds himself in a dual role—he’s both a trade candidate and a potential fixture for the team as the February 5 NBA trade deadline approaches. Reports indicate that while the Celtics might consider keeping Simons, the team’s president, Brad Stevens, remains actively engaged in exploring options to mitigate their tax burden. This urgency has been apparent since Stevens acquired Simons in the deal for Jrue Holiday back in June.
Celtics’ Strategic Dilemma
Jake Fischer from The Stein Line highlights the delicacy of Boston’s situation. Stevens is weighing the potential benefits of moving Simons for a player who could enhance the rotation while simultaneously alleviating the team’s tax concerns. Fischer notes, “I do suspect, though, that if Boston could somehow move Simons for a rotational upgrade and lower their tax bill in the process — or get out of that penalty zone altogether — that would check all the boxes Brad Stevens’ front office could conjure up.”
January Will Be Pivotal for Simons
The Celtics are acutely aware that time is not on their side, especially with several players, including Simons, on expiring contracts. What makes Simons’ situation particularly precarious is his likelihood of departing Boston next season due to looming free-agent costs. He does not fit the mold of a typical Joe Mazzulla player and may only see minutes as a means to showcase his abilities before a potential trade.
However, Simons’ scoring prowess could be a critical asset for the team as they push for a playoff spot. In their recent victory, despite not scoring in the final frame, his contributions were vital throughout the game. His nine-point outburst in the third quarter was instrumental in the Celtics’ comeback, demonstrating his ability to stretch the floor and create his own shot. This skill set complements the solid performances of teammates like Jordan Walsh, Josh Minott, and Hugo Gonzalez.
Role and Future Outlook
Simons holds a unique role as a designated scorer, making him a reliable option should Derrick White or Payton Pritchard face injuries. Yet, the decision on Simons’ future will hinge on the Celtics’ performance in the coming weeks. Should he prove essential to the team’s success, his chances of remaining in Boston will increase. Conversely, if the Celtics struggle and slip in the playoff race before the trade deadline, Simons could become a casualty in a strategic move to reduce the tax bill.
As January unfolds, the Celtics’ management will be closely monitoring Simons’ impact on the court, making critical decisions that could shape the team’s trajectory for the remainder of the season. The balance between immediate playoff ambitions and long-term financial strategy will determine whether Simons continues to don the green and white or becomes a piece of the puzzle in a trade.
