The Boston Celtics are shaping up to be one of the more intriguing teams to watch in the 2025–26 NBA season. While they still have enough talent on paper to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference, it might be in their best long-term interest to treat this year as a developmental one—focusing on resting their stars and giving young players more opportunities.
With that approach in mind, one player on the roster appears poised to earn far more than his production is likely to justify—making him a costly figure for Boston moving forward.
Anfernee Simons Could Be a Financial Burden for the Celtics
Anfernee Simons, acquired from the Portland Trail Blazers in a trade for Jrue Holiday, is expected to earn over $27.6 million this season. While draft picks were originally included in the deal, they were later removed following Holiday’s medical evaluation by Portland.
Despite his talent, Simons has yet to prove himself as a contributor to a contending team. Since stepping into a larger role during the 2021–22 season, his stats—including scoring efficiency and shooting percentages have declined. He’s known more as a high-volume shooter than a reliable playmaker, with just a 2-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio, making him an awkward fit for Joe Mazzulla’s system.
Even worse, Simons is unlikely to elevate the team enough to make Boston a true playoff threat, yet he might win them just enough games to keep them from securing a valuable pick in the loaded 2026 NBA Draft a scenario that could leave the team stuck in the dreaded middle ground of mediocrity.
Trading Simons isn’t a simple solution either. The Celtics have reportedly been exploring options for over a month, but there’s been little buzz about active interest from other teams. Unless a trade partner emerges soon, Boston may be forced to carry the hefty contract of a player who, at best, will be little more than a placeholder for the 2025–26 season.
