Celtics Struggle to Fulfill Anfernee Simons’ Wish, Blazers Fell Short
Anfernee Simons expressed a strong desire for a chance to win as he entered his seventh season with the Portland Trail Blazers. Unfortunately, this aspiration has yet to be fulfilled. Last season, the Blazers finished with a record of 36-46, marking their fourth consecutive year missing the playoffs. Though the team showed improvement from the previous season’s 21 wins, it fell short of Simons’ expectations.
As the 2024-25 season began, Simons conveyed to Jason Quick of The Athletic that he was facing “the hardest mental battle” of his career but had no intention of requesting a trade. Despite being a potential trade candidate due to the Blazers’ strategy of building a backcourt around top-ten draft picks Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe, Simons remained with the team through the offseason.
Celtics Acquire Simons Amid Trade Speculation
This past offseason provided a pivotal moment for the Blazers’ general manager, Joe Cronin, regarding Simons’ future. Many argued that trading Simons earlier would have maximized his market value. Nevertheless, the decision to keep him has paid off for Portland, especially with the strong start of new player Jrue Holiday.
Conversely, Simons’ journey in Boston has been tumultuous. The Celtics made the move to acquire him largely for financial reasons, aiming to navigate the complexities of team salary. However, Simons began the season in a sixth-man role as Boston evaluated his true fit within the team’s structure.
Simons’ Current Performance
- Average Points: 14.3
- Average Rebounds: 2.0
- Average Assists: 1.6
- Shooting Splits: 41% FG, 38% 3PT, 83% FT
- Minutes Played: 26.9 per game
Statistically, this marks Simons’ most challenging season since 2020-21. His reduced role, combined with a lower usage rate, leads to questions about his satisfaction in Boston. Currently, the Celtics hold a record of 4-5 and do not appear to be playoff contenders, particularly in the weak Eastern Conference.
Future Prospects for Anfernee Simons
The current situation raises doubts about whether Simons is truly comfortable in his new role. Given that his former team, the Blazers, are enjoying a successful start at 5-3 this season, the contrast must be frustrating for him. As February’s trade deadline approaches, Simons might be evaluated again as a potential trade candidate.
Should the Celtics decide to move him, it is hoped that Simons will be traded to a legitimate contender, finally providing him the “opportunity to win” he has long desired.
