As the Boston Celtics navigate a transitional season without Jayson Tatum, a bold trade scenario from The Ringer’s Bill Simmons would see the franchise package Anfernee Simons and future picks for Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III in a move that could reshape their core.
BOSTON – With the Boston Celtics positioned at 9-8 and tenth in the Eastern Conference, the franchise faces a critical decision ahead of the February trade deadline: accelerate the rebuild or preserve future assets. A provocative trade proposal from prominent analyst Bill Simmons suggests an aggressive path forward that would fundamentally alter Boston’s roster construction.
The complex three-team scenario would see:
Boston Celtics receive: Trey Murphy III
New Orleans Pelicans receive: Celtics’ 2026 first-round pick (potentially lottery), 2028 pick swap rights, and 2031 unprotected first-round pick
LA Clippers receive: Anfernee Simons and Saddiq Bey
“If you’re the Celtics, if you could do whatever it took to turn Simons into Trey Murphy and spend some picks, and then have the foundation of White, and Pritchard, and Tatum and Brown, and Trey Murphy,” Simmons elaborated on his podcast. “You’ve rebooted.“
The proposed trade centers on Murphy, a 25-year-old forward having a career year despite New Orleans’ league-worst 2-15 record. The Virginia product is averaging 20.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.7 steals while shooting 37% from three-point range, offering the exact two-way wing versatility Boston currently lacks.
However, the cost would be substantial. Boston would surrender multiple future picks including a potential lottery selection in what’s projected to be a loaded 2026 draft class. The 2031 unprotected pick represents particular risk, potentially arriving as current core players like Derrick White and Jaylen Brown approach their mid-30s.
The trade would address Boston’s perimeter defensive needs while alleviating the backcourt logjam created by Simons’ presence alongside Derrick White and Payton Pritchard. Murphy’s $12.3 million contract also provides better long-term financial flexibility compared to Simons’ deal.
As the Celtics weigh their options, the fundamental question remains: is a 25-year-old forward with injury concerns worth potentially multiple lottery picks in a franchise-altering draft? The answer could define Boston’s trajectory for the next decade.