Overview

• Boston fell 107-105 to the Raptors after leading 103-89 with 3:45 left, committing eight turnovers in the closing stretch and 28 overall.
• Anfernee Simons logged about 25 minutes in his first Celtics appearance, scoring 18 points with three assists and acknowledging early nerves before settling in.
• Reporters noted Simons’ offensive punch but flagged on-ball defensive issues, including possessions against Toronto wing Gradey Dick.
• Coach Joe Mazzulla benched Baylor Scheierman during the fourth quarter and later defended rookie Hugo Gonzalez against reports of language barriers, emphasizing situational awareness and communication.
• Simons arrived in the Jrue Holiday trade and is in the final year of his contract, making his fit and defensive progress a key preseason evaluation point.