Jayson Tatum might be out for the entire season. But that isn’t hampering Joe Mazzulla’s vision for the Boston Celtics. They still have a part of their championship-winning core, as Jaylen Brown takes over as the heart of the franchise. While the Celtics did lose some key figures to dodge a lofty tax bill, the Shamrocks have assembled a formidable unit.
One name that has drawn curiosity is Anfernee Simons. Tatum expects a lot from the 26-year-old. The former Trail Blazers star has quickly evolved his scoring arsenal with an improved eye for playmaking. However, Simons hasn’t been exposed to demands such as playing for the Celtics. Tatum feels the change in scenery could be incredibly beneficial for him.
“We’re bringing in guys like Anfernee who’s been very very good in the NBA in a different, you know, environment and now we’re bringing him into an environment where, you know, the expectations are a little different and, you know, he’s an unbelievable player, and I think he will thrive in a situation like that,” he said of Simons on USA Today.
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The former Portland guard, mentored somewhat by Damian Lillard, has regularly shown growth in his game. Despite playing a secondary role to some of his teammates last season, Simons averaged 19.3 points. Moreover, he hasn’t produced fewer than 17 points since his fourth year in the league. Yet, he has been mentioned in trade talks.
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The primary reasons for the Celtics trading Anfernee Simons would be to completely slide under the luxury tax. There are also doubts about his contributions on the defensive end, where competing is a non-negotiable for Mazzulla. Yet, keeping him at least until Jayson Tatum is back might benefit the Celtics.
The Celtics can use Anfernee Simons to meet their expectations
With the amount of changes the Celtics have seen on their roster, they aren’t touted as title contenders. It’s a completely new unit, which still needs some time to gel and learn how to play together. Anfernee Simons, who might not have a role as a starter, could still play a major role for the Shamrocks in their injury-riddled season.
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It will be an adjustment. But look at how Mazzulla transformed Payton Pritchard last season. He claimed 6MOTY honors and is now expected to replace Jrue Holiday in the starting lineup. Since Lillard’s exit from Portland, Simons hasn’t had to deal with the expectations of winning. Now, on an expiring contract, the 26-year-old has to go out to prove himself.
Anfernee Simons doesn’t have to replace Tatum. That isn’t possible. He just needs to be a fierce competitor who will help the Celtics win games. If it’s off the bench, Simons can supply them with a scoring burst, which is lacking for the Celtics this season. They lost a lot of their offensive arsenal with their offseason departures.
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But to be a consistent player for Boston, Simons needs to contribute defensively. Playing hard-nosed and being disruptive has been the Celtics’ identity on the defensive end with Mazzulla’s entry. Anfernee Simons has the tangibles with his athleticism, but he’s going to have to make that effort. If that works, the Celtics could be well-positioned to compete.