The Boston Celtics are sitting in a strong position in the Eastern Conference, thanks in large part to Jaylen Brown’s standout play this season. With Jayson Tatum still on the mend, the team has found a groove, and there's been some buzz that Boston might stand pat at the trade deadline. But make no mistake - the Celtics are keeping their eyes open for ways to level up.
One of the more surprising developments is the team’s reported willingness to move Anfernee Simons, their marquee offseason addition. According to multiple reports, Boston has made Simons available on the trade market. The 24-year-old guard is in the final year of the four-year, $100 million deal he signed with Portland back in 2022, and he’s set to hit unrestricted free agency this summer.
Simons came to Boston with expectations of being a dynamic scoring option, but he’s been slotted into a sixth-man role - one that hasn’t quite suited his strengths. While his ability to put the ball in the basket isn’t in question, his fit within Boston’s current rotation has been. It’s a tough break for a talented player, but it also opens the door for a team looking for a scoring punch off the bench or a starting-caliber guard to pick him up at a discount before the deadline.
The market for Simons appears to be limited, but that could change quickly as teams reassess needs and injuries pile up. He’s still a young, proven scorer who can heat up in a hurry - and that’s always valuable come playoff time.
Meanwhile, Boston’s front office doesn’t appear to be stopping there. According to league insiders, the Celtics are actively exploring the trade market with an eye on upgrading their frontcourt.
The goal? Add a legitimate starting-caliber big man to shore up their interior presence and deepen a rotation that’s been solid but could use more muscle and rim protection.
“They’ve been in the marketplace, potentially trying to get a big-time starting center,” said NBA insider Shams Charania. “They’ve got assets. They’ve got contracts to use and play with.”
That’s an important point. Boston has the flexibility to make a deal happen.
They’ve got movable contracts, intriguing young pieces, and a win-now mentality. If the right opportunity presents itself, don’t be surprised to see them pull the trigger.
All of this is happening while Jayson Tatum continues to weigh his return. The All-Star forward is reportedly being cautious, not wanting to disrupt the chemistry that’s propelled the Celtics near the top of the standings. It’s a delicate balance - bringing back your best player without throwing off a team that’s clicking.
But if Boston does make a move for a frontcourt upgrade, and Tatum returns at full strength down the stretch, this team could be a serious problem for the rest of the East. The Celtics are already dangerous. With a few tweaks, they could be downright scary.