Celtics Insider Predicts Anfernee Simons Trade Before Season’s End

BOSTON, Massachusetts — The Boston Celtics may trade point guard Anfernee Simons before the end of the 2025-26 NBA season, according to insider Jay King. The Celtics acquired Simons from the Portland Trail Blazers in the offseason, sending All-Star Jrue Holiday in the deal as part of a summer dedicated to financial restructuring.

Simons’ name circulated in trade talks throughout the offseason, but he remains with the team as the new season begins. King highlighted the Celtics’ current financial situation, stating, “They sit about $12.1 million above the luxury-tax threshold.” He added that maintaining the current roster could result in a luxury-tax payment of approximately $39.5 million by season’s end.

“In a season of lower expectations, it might make sense for the new ownership group to avoid paying that much,” King noted. If the Celtics can trade Simons—who is only 25 years old and averaged 19.3 points and 4.8 assists last season—it could help the team get under the luxury tax while addressing needs in the roster.

The Celtics’ recent preseason struggles, including the unavailability of Jayson Tatum due to offseason surgery, have put pressure on the team to improve its frontcourt. King emphasized that if the Celtics do not see Simons as part of their long-term plans, a trade might be wise. He explained, “Even if they can’t find a Simons trade that would shed that much money, it would be smart to move him in another salary-cutting trade.”

Boston is expected to evaluate Simons alongside guards Derrick White and Payton Pritchard in the early season, particularly with uncertainty surrounding Jaylen Brown, who is questionable for the season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers. The Celtics are gearing up for their first game of the season on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. ET.