Simons Shines in Second Half as Celtics Rally Against Magic

ORLANDO, Fla. — Anfernee Simons bounced back in the second half, leading the Boston Celtics to a nail-biting performance against the Orlando Magic on Sunday. After a lackluster first half, where he did not score, Simons exploded with 25 points in just 14 minutes of play.

During the first quarter, Simons struggled, missing a 3-pointer and failing to contribute on defense, resulting in an 11-point deficit for the Celtics. He was quickly replaced and did not return for the rest of the first half. In the second half, he found his rhythm, making three 3-pointers and providing two assists.

Celtics Coach Joe Mazzulla clarified that benching Simons was not a message but a chance for him to refocus. “I think he just has to have an understanding of what we have to do on both ends of the floor,” Mazzulla said. “And I thought he did a better job of that in the second half.”

Simons, undeterred by his earlier performance, acknowledged the need for energy on the court. He credited teammates Hugo González and Jordan Walsh for their contributions during his absence. “Those could be growing pains,” he said. “As we go through these situations, I think we’ll get better.”

After entering the game with Boston trailing 21-9, Simons quickly shifted the momentum, sinking a step-back 3-pointer and a transition shot. By the end of the first quarter, the deficit shrank to 33-30. Over the next few minutes, he continued to score effortlessly, leaving defenders stunned.

<p“Simply put, when he gets in a rhythm like that, there’s nothing you can do to stop him,” said center Luka Garza. “We’re just trying to feed him so he can stay comfortable.”

Simons’s performance turned the game around, helping the Celtics take a 3-point lead after trailing by 12. Forward Jaylen Brown praised Simons for being aggressive. “That’s what we need, and it takes pressure off everyone,” he noted.

Although Simons did not score in the second half, the Celtics secured a 13-0 run in the fourth quarter. Mazzulla highlighted that Simons’s early play forced the Magic to adjust their defense, opening up more opportunities for his teammates.

<p“He’s one of those great players, causing the defense to shift,” Garza added. “I'm proud that Anfernee was trusting me in those moments.”

As Boston navigates its season, it highlights the importance of adaptability. With players like Simons igniting their performance, the Celtics are aiming for a strong showing moving forward.