
NBA Rumors: After sending Jrue Holiday to Portland in a cost-reducing move, the Boston Celtics acquired Anfernee Simons, but now they face an important decision about his future. With a $26.7 million contract for one year, the shooting guard—who averages 19.3 points per game—could be useful in the rotation, especially while Jayson Tatum is recovering. However, letting him go as a free agent at the end of the season is also an option that would allow the team to maintain financial flexibility.
However, as reported by Brian Windhorst on his podcast The Hoop Collective, the Celtics are exploring a different alternative: trading Simons again. "I've spoken to other teams who say Boston is actively trying to move Simons. The question is whether they will be successful," stated the journalist.
During a recent appearance, Celtics' President of Operations Brad Stevens praised the player's qualities. He highlighted his scoring ability, efficiency from the perimeter, and the fact that, at 26 years old, Simons has maintained an average close to 20 points over three consecutive seasons. "I think he's a very good player and can still continue to improve," he pointed out.
From an economic perspective, Boston is looking to further alleviate its salary cap. The departures of Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis enabled the team to drop from the second level of economic penalties, resulting in savings of nearly $200 million in salaries and taxes. A suitable trade involving Simons could even help them avoid the first penalty threshold. If they decide to move him, all signs point to it being in exchange for a center, given Porzingis' and Luke Kornet's departures, as well as the likely departure of Al Horford. At this moment, Neemias Queta stands as the only available center for the starting lineup.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rumores NBA: El último movimiento que prepara Boston Celtics