The most tense moment of the NBA season is approaching: the trade deadline. For the Boston Celtics, the need is as clear as day: they must add a quality big man to bolster their roster for the playoffs. However, the path to achieving that goal is fraught with obstacles, centered around two key names in potential deals: Anfernee Simons and Sam Hauser. But are the Celtics willing to pay the price?
Anfernee Simons, with his expiring $27.7 million contract, has long been seen as the ideal “ticket” for the Celtics to pull off a major trade. Moving Simons would not only allow the team to target a center but could also help them escape the luxury tax, as they are currently just $12.1 million away from that threshold.
However, according to the latest report from HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, the Celtics find themselves in a dilemma. They are unwilling to include first-round picks in any trade involving Simons. This immediately narrows down the feasible options, as not many teams are ready to take on a shooter on a short-term deal without receiving future assets in return.
Scotto outlined a plausible scenario: a deal with the Brooklyn Nets centered around center Day’Ron Sharpe. The appeal of this name lies in his contract structure.
“In any Simons scenario, there’s been a hesitancy to take on future long-term money for Boston,” Scotto wrote. “Thus, acquiring a player like Terance Mann ($31.5 million over the next two seasons) would not align with Boston’s preferred stance. Instead, players like Day’Ron Sharpe and Ziaire Williams, who each have a $6.25 million team option for next season, would be more likely to appeal to Boston.”
This information carries weight, as sources revealed the Celtics were interested in signing Sharpe this past summer to compete for the starting center role, but could only offer a minimum contract at the time.
At 24 years old, after five seasons of development in Brooklyn, Sharpe is shaping into a versatile big man. In 32 games this season, he is averaging 7.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists, with an impressive 60.5% field goal percentage.
Sharpe’s strengths lie in his versatility and efficiency in off-ball tasks. He is a solid rebounder, a diligent interior defender, and is developing his passing ability in short-roll situations. Recent performances, like his 17-point, 6-rebound, 4-assist, 3-steal game against the Denver Nuggets, showcase his potential when given the opportunity.
Before the deadline, President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens and the Celtics’ front office face a crucial decision:
Keep Simons, accept the tax bill, and hope the current roster is competitive enough.
Trade Simons for a piece like Day’Ron Sharpe, a pragmatic move that saves money but means parting with a key offensive weapon.
Be more aggressive, seek a bigger trade but be forced to include first-round picks—something they clearly want to avoid.
Given the current information, a scenario exchanging Simons for Sharpe and some minor assets appears to be the most viable and realistic choice, aligning with the Celtics’ cautious financial philosophy and their existing need for interior reinforcement. Time is running out, and the coming days will reveal whether the “Green Machine” opts for the safe road or stuns the league with a surprise move.