Could Anfernee Simons truly be the next scoring king for the Boston Celtics? With Tatum sidelined and a contract year looming, one NBA executive is making a bold prediction. But there’s a catch: the Celtics are actively trying to trade him. Will Simons defy expectations, or will he be on the move before he even gets a chance to shine?
Despite swirling Celtics Trade Rumors, an unexpected prediction is gaining traction across the league: Anfernee Simons could emerge as the NBA Scoring Leader for the Boston Celtics next season. This bold forecast comes in the wake of Jayson Tatum’s unfortunate Achilles injury during the 2025 playoffs, an event that has necessitated a significant roster shake-up and altered the team’s offensive dynamics for the upcoming campaign. This narrative offers a fascinating point for Basketball Analysis.
One prominent NBA executive, speaking anonymously, firmly believes Simons is poised for a breakout. “I bet you he’s their leading scorer,” the executive asserted, even over established star Jaylen Brown. The rationale is clear: Simons is expected to handle the ball extensively, and his inherent scoring prowess is undeniable. The executive highlighted that Boston’s offensive scheme will undoubtedly adapt to accommodate his talents, especially as he enters the final year of his current contract, giving him every incentive to “let it fly.”
Simons, at 26 years old, is currently owed $27.7 million this season before becoming an unrestricted free agent next summer. This contractual situation serves as a powerful motivator, driving him to maximize his performance. With Jayson Tatum sidelined, a considerable void in offensive production opens up, presenting Simons with a prime opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities and significantly enhance his market value heading into free agency.
The NBA executive further emphasized Simons’ scoring ability with a contemporary idiom. “As the kids say, he’s a bucket,” the executive quipped. “That dude is a bucket. He can really fill it up.” Recalling his previous average of around 20 points in the highly competitive Western Conference, the executive questioned, “What do you think he’s going to do in the Eastern Conference, which is a LOT less competitive? How’s he not going to score and score big?” This sentiment underscores the high expectations for his offensive output in Boston.
On the Boston Celtics roster, Anfernee Simons is anticipated to serve as a crucial floor spacer and perimeter scorer, complementing the talents of established players. His ability to stretch the defense will create more opportunities for his teammates. When Jayson Tatum eventually returns to the lineup, his presence will further ease Simons’ scoring burden by drawing the attention of opposing defenses, allowing Simons to operate with more freedom.
However, for Anfernee Simons to truly embrace a larger role and elevate his game with the Boston Celtics, dedication to developing his two-way play is paramount. Significant time in the gym and on the practice court will be essential for improving his defensive liabilities. At the very least, honing his skills as a primary ball handler and playmaker would be invaluable, helping to fill the creative void left by previous departures and adding another dimension to his game.
While team expectations for the Boston Celtics might be tempered next season given the recent injuries and roster changes, the individual circumstances are perfectly aligned for Anfernee Simons to achieve a career-defining year. Beyond the potent motivation of his impending free agency, Simons will be immersed in an organization renowned for its winning tradition and a steadfast culture of excellence, both on and off the court. This environment offers an ideal platform for growth.
Despite the potential for a breakout season, the Boston Celtics have actively explored options to reroute Anfernee Simons since acquiring him in exchange for Jrue Holiday. The franchise’s primary objective has been to shed as much salary as possible, with the aim of getting under the first apron of the luxury tax, and ideally, beneath the luxury tax threshold entirely. This financial maneuvering is a key focus for the team heading into the next year.
An NBA insider recently provided an update on the ongoing Celtics Trade Rumors, indicating that while the team is still actively shopping Simons, a trade before training camp appears unlikely. However, Boston is expected to continue putting out feelers to interested teams, exploring potential deals until the trade deadline in February. The Celtics are also reportedly wary of taking back any long-term contracts unless the acquired player can directly contribute to their championship aspirations in the 2026-27 season, emphasizing a strategic approach to roster construction. This entire situation is significant NBA News.
