The Brooklyn Nets are making waves in the NBA trade market, and their latest target is none other than Boston Celtics guard Anfernee Simons. According to a recent X post by NetsDaily, the Nets engaged in trade talks with Boston to acquire the 26-year-old guard, who was part of the blockbuster deal that sent Jrue Holiday to the Celtics earlier this offseason. However, the negotiations hit a snag, with the Nets reportedly demanding a hefty haul of draft assets that Boston wasn’t willing to part with. This surprising development has sparked intrigue, as Simons—averaging 21 points per game over the last three seasons—hardly fits the mold of a typical “salary dump” candidate.
So, why are the Celtics looking to offload a player of Simons’ caliber? The answer lies in Boston’s quest for cap flexibility, especially in the wake of Jayson Tatum’s devastating Achilles injury. The Celtics are reportedly aiming to clear salary space to maintain financial maneuverability, and Simons’ $26 million cap hit for next season makes him a prime candidate for a trade. But here’s the kicker: Boston would need to attach draft picks to sweeten the deal, a move that raises eyebrows given Simons’ proven production as a dynamic combo guard.
For the Nets, this presents a golden opportunity. Brooklyn has been actively seeking future draft picks in exchange for taking on hefty contracts, as seen in their recent deals involving Terance Mann and Haywood Highsmith. However, Simons is a different beast entirely. Unlike the typical salary dump, he’s a semi-young, high-scoring guard who brings a well-rounded skill set to the table. Compared to restricted free agent Cam Thomas, who the Nets have hesitated to pay upwards of $30 million annually, Simons offers better value and versatility. While Thomas, at 23, is three years younger, Simons’ ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game—while still putting up big scoring numbers—makes him an enticing upgrade.
If the Nets can pull off a trade for Simons while retaining their 2025 rookie class, Nic Claxton, and Michael Porter Jr., they should jump at the chance. Even if Boston offers just a single first-round pick, Brooklyn would be wise to accept. Pairing Simons with an incoming point guard could create one of the league’s most electrifying backcourts, setting the stage for a bright future. Moreover, this move could resolve the ongoing contract drama with Cam Thomas, allowing the Nets to cement Simons as their long-term two guard while giving Thomas a fresh start elsewhere—a true win-win scenario.