Boston Celtics general manager Brad Stevens didn’t hold back when discussing newly acquired guard Anfernee Simons, calling the 26-year-old “a really good player who can get even better.”
The Celtics landed Simons in a blockbuster trade that sent veteran Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers on July 7, a move Stevens acknowledged was heavily influenced by the NBA’s restrictive second-apron rules.
“His ability to score, shoot the ball, and make really hard shots is pretty elite,” Stevens said during a press conference. “You look at a guy who’s averaged 20 points a game for three straight years—he’s a big part of our retooling.”
Simons, a career 38.1% three-point shooter, gives Boston a much-needed offensive spark after the departures of Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. While Stevens admitted the financial constraints forced tough decisions, he emphasized Simons’ upside as a key factor in the deal.
At just 26, Simons brings youth and explosiveness to a Celtics team looking to stay competitive despite losing key veterans. His career-high 22.6 points per game in 2023-24 proves he can carry an offensive load—a crucial trait with Jayson Tatum sidelined to start the season.
Stevens also highlighted Simons’ work ethic and growth potential, saying, “We’re looking for guys who haven’t hit their peak yet.” With Jaylen Brown expected to take on a larger role, Simons’ scoring punch could help ease the burden.
Stevens didn’t shy away from admitting the Celtics’ moves were dictated by the NBA’s punishing second-apron penalties. “The second apron’s why those trades happened,” he said. “The basketball penalties are real.”
Still, Boston’s front office believes Simons’ arrival, along with other additions like Georges Niang and Luka Garza, keeps them competitive. “We’re excited about this group,” Stevens said. “We’ll play hard as hell.”
With Tatum’s return timeline uncertain, Simons could see an expanded role early in the season. Stevens made it clear: Boston isn’t rebuilding—just retooling. “Our north star is winning championships,” he said.
