The Boston Celtics’ starting lineup for the 2025-26 NBA season has been a topic of intense speculation following a dramatic offseason roster shakeup. With Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, and Jayson Tatum sidelined, and Jrue Holiday traded away, the team faced critical decisions about its on-court identity. One of the biggest questions was who would replace Holiday at guard: incumbent Payton Pritchard or newcomer Anfernee Simons. According to Grant Afseth of FastBreakJournal.com, the battle is over before the preseason even begins—Payton Pritchard has secured the starting role.
Payton Pritchard has long been a fan favorite in Boston, known for his gritty play and clutch shooting off the bench. The 2024 Sixth Man of the Year has steadily climbed the ranks, proving his worth in a crowded Celtics backcourt. Last season, Pritchard’s efficiency and knack for big moments made him a standout, averaging career-highs in points and assists while showcasing his ability to stretch defenses with his three-point shooting.
Historically, players like Manu Ginobili, Jamal Crawford, and Lou Williams have thrived as sixth men, but winning the Sixth Man of the Year award often signals a transition to a starting role. Pritchard now joins that elite group, earning the nod due to his familiarity with Boston’s system and his consistent growth. As Afseth notes, Pritchard’s “steady development and readiness to handle expanded responsibilities” made him the clear choice over Simons.
Pritchard’s ascension is also a financial win for the Celtics. With three years and approximately $23.5 million left on his contract, Pritchard is a cost-effective cornerstone compared to former Sixth Man winner Malcolm Brogdon, who commanded $15 million more annually. At 27, Pritchard is poised for a breakout season, likely playing 33-35 minutes per game alongside Derrick White. If his shooting efficiency holds, expect another leap in production as he anchors Boston’s backcourt.
The decision to start Pritchard signals the Celtics’ confidence in their homegrown talent. In a season marked by roster turnover and the absence of stars like Tatum, leaning on a player steeped in the team’s culture is a strategic move. Pritchard’s familiarity with Brad Stevens’ system gives him an edge, ensuring continuity as the Celtics aim to stay competitive despite their challenges.
Pairing Pritchard with White creates a dynamic backcourt that balances defense and offense. While White handles primary playmaking duties, Pritchard’s ability to create his own shot and knock down threes will stretch opposing defenses, providing the scoring punch Boston desperately needs. This move isn’t just about this season—it’s a statement that Pritchard is a cornerstone of the Celtics’ future.
While Pritchard’s rise is a feel-good story, it casts a shadow over Anfernee Simons’ future in Boston. Acquired in the Jrue Holiday trade, Simons was seen as a potential spark plug, bringing instant offense with his scoring prowess. However, the Celtics’ decision to start Pritchard makes it clear that Simons is the odd man out.
Simons, who started for the Portland Trail Blazers last season, may view this as a demotion. In Portland, he thrived as a primary scorer, but the Trail Blazers’ roster chaos often forced him into a role that didn’t fully suit his skill set. In Boston, a more structured system, Simons was likely to come off the bench even if he had stayed in Portland, with Scoot Henderson’s emergence pushing him to a reserve role.
The Celtics’ financial situation further complicates Simons’ future. Sitting just $12.1 million above the luxury tax line, Boston is in the midst of a financial reset following Tatum’s injury and the realization that a championship run is unlikely this season. Trading Simons, whose contract is expiring, would push the Celtics below the luxury tax threshold—a move that trading Pritchard or Sam Hauser wouldn’t accomplish. As a result, Simons is reportedly on the trade block, with a move considered “inevitable” by league insiders.
For now, Simons will serve as a key bench piece, rotating with Pritchard and White to provide scoring punch. His ability to create offense in bursts makes him a valuable asset, but his long-term fit in Boston is questionable. Simons’ performance this season will determine whether he lands with a contender or is traded for salary relief. Either way, his days in green appear numbered.
For the Celtics, elevating Pritchard is a bold move that showcases their commitment to developing and rewarding talent. It sends a message to the league: Boston is building for the future while staying competitive in the present. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Pritchard to prove he can handle the starting role—and on Simons to see how he adapts to a bench role before his likely departure.