Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Celtics Keep Options Open on Anfernee Simons Ahead of Feb. 5 Deadline

Boston is weighing tax relief against frontcourt help in decisions on Simons’ expiring deal.

Overview

  • NBA insider Jake Fischer reports Boston is now open to keeping Simons past the deadline after an 18–11 start and ownership’s willingness to pay some tax.
  • Simons’ $27.6–$27.7 million expiring contract positions the team to either add frontcourt help or meaningfully trim its luxury-tax bill, with Boston roughly $12 million over the line.
  • Trading the guard could address a center need, but it would leave thin depth behind Derrick White and Payton Pritchard unless another ball handler comes back.
  • A public three-team proposal from FanSided would send Simons to Utah and bring Kyle Anderson and Nick Richards to Boston, reducing salary, though it is only a media pitch at this stage.
  • Simons has averaged 13.0 points, 2.3 assists and 2.1 rebounds off the bench, while analysts question his defensive metrics and potential playoff role.