The Boston Celtics are actively working to reshape their roster and salary cap situation, with Anfernee Simons at the center of ongoing trade discussions. Acquired in a blockbuster deal that sent Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers, Simons has been on the trading block as the Celtics aim to alleviate their luxury tax burden. However, according to a recent update, finding a new home for the talented guard is proving to be a challenge.
The Celtics’ primary goal is to shed salary to slip below the first apron of the luxury tax—and potentially avoid the tax entirely heading into the 2025-26 season. Moving Simons, who carries a significant salary, is a key part of that strategy. Despite their efforts, NBA insider Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reports that no trade appears imminent before training camp begins.
“While it doesn’t appear as if there is a trade on the horizon involving Simons before training camp, the Celtics have been aggressive in shedding cap space and salaries this summer,” Siegel noted.
Simons, known for his scoring prowess, averaged 22.6 points per game last season with the Trail Blazers, showcasing his value as a dynamic offensive player. However, Boston’s front office remains focused on financial flexibility, making Simons a prime candidate to be moved. The team has reportedly reached out to multiple franchises with prior interest in the 26-year-old guard to gauge his trade market, both now and leading up to the February 2026 trade deadline.
“Since acquiring Simons, Boston has continued to put out feelers to teams that have shown past interest in the young guard to get a sense of what his market currently looks like, and could shape up to be, before the trade deadline in February, sources said,” Siegel added.
One complicating factor in potential trades is Boston’s reluctance to take on long-term contracts in exchange for Simons. The Celtics are carefully navigating their roster moves to preserve flexibility for future deals, especially with key contracts looming on the horizon.
As training camp approaches, it seems increasingly likely that Simons will remain with the Celtics for the time being. However, the situation could change as the trade deadline nears, with teams potentially showing renewed interest in the scoring guard. There’s also a possibility that Boston reconsiders its stance on Simons if he proves his value during the early part of the season.
For now, Celtics fans will have to wait and see whether the team can find a trade partner or if Simons will don the green and white when the 2025-26 season tips off. Stay tuned for further updates as Boston continues its roster maneuvering.
