Celtics’ Simons Trade Plan Takes Shape, Per NBA Insider

The Boston Celtics, initially viewing this season as a transitional "bridge year" following Jayson Tatum's injury, have unexpectedly emerged as a strong contender in the Eastern Conference with an 18-11 record. This success has prompted the team's front office to reassess its strategy ahead of the NBA trade deadline, shifting from a conservative approach to considering more aggressive moves to bolster the roster.

Central to this strategic recalibration is guard Anfernee Simons, the team's major offseason acquisition. Previously seen primarily as a salary-matching asset for trades, the Celtics are now reportedly open to keeping him beyond the deadline. This change in stance is linked to the team's competitive performance and a newfound willingness to pay some luxury tax this season, despite earlier cost-saving moves.

Simons has contributed averages of 13.0 points, 2.3 assists, and 2.1 rebounds, providing valuable perimeter shooting and spacing. However, his steady but not transformative production, combined with his expiring $27.7 million contract, keeps him involved in trade discussions. The Celtics could use his contract to acquire a frontcourt player to improve their interior depth or to shed salary.

Trade discussions involving Simons have already occurred, notably with the Brooklyn Nets before the season. These talks, which ultimately collapsed, included the Celtics targeting Nets center Day'Ron Sharpe as a potential solution for their frontcourt depth. Sharpe, averaging 7.1 points and 5.6 rebounds off the bench for Brooklyn, was seen as a player who could compete for a starting role in Boston.