The Boston Celtics have been navigating a turbulent offseason, scrambling to align their finances under the NBA’s punishing second apron. With the team just $1.9 million shy of the luxury tax threshold and a staggering $73 million tax bill projected for the 2025-26 season, according to Spotrac, GM Brad Stevens has been forced to make tough calls. The Celtics parted ways with key frontcourt players Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday via trades, while Luke Kornet and Al Horford departed in free agency. These moves have left Boston’s roster alarmingly thin in the paint, casting doubts on their competitiveness for the upcoming season.
Amid this financial tightrope, one name has emerged as the likely next casualty: Anfernee Simons. The 26-year-old combo guard, acquired from Portland in the Jrue Holiday trade, has reportedly confirmed that August could mark his final month in green. Sources indicate that Simons, a dynamic scorer with a knack for off-the-dribble shooting and playmaking, is on the trading block as Stevens continues to reshape the roster.
Simons’ skill set could have been a game-changer for a Celtics squad adjusting to life without Jayson Tatum’s offensive firepower. His ability to create shots and stretch defenses with his long-range shooting made him an intriguing fit. However, his $27.6 million salary for the 2025-26 season, combined with a contract set to expire next summer, makes him a costly luxury. With Payton Pritchard delivering similar production at a fraction of the cost—roughly a quarter of Simons’ annual salary—Boston faces a clear financial incentive to move on.
Trading Simons could provide significant savings, potentially pushing the Celtics under the second apron and easing their tax burden. While league rules prevent finalizing any deal until September due to his recent trade, the Celtics are reportedly targeting a frontcourt player in return to address their depleted big-man rotation. A versatile big who can space the floor or anchor the defense would be a critical addition, helping to restore balance to a roster that’s been gutted by necessity.
The prospect of Simons donning a Celtics jersey was tantalizing for fans, who envisioned his explosive scoring igniting TD Garden. Yet, with Boston prioritizing long-term financial flexibility and roster depth, his tenure may end before it truly begins. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Stevens to see how he navigates this high-stakes chess game, with Simons’ departure signaling that more bold moves are on the horizon.