Anfernee Simons, the 26-year-old combo guard, finds himself at a pivotal moment in his NBA journey. After spending the first seven seasons of his career with the Portland Trail Blazers, he was traded in the 2025 off-season to the Boston Celtics in exchange for veteran guard Jrue Holiday and two second-round draft picks. New York Post+1
The move brings both opportunity and uncertainty for Simons: on one hand, a chance to shine in a fresh system; on the other, a one-year, expiring deal and the very real possibility of being on the move again. SI
Performance and Transition
In his final season with Portland (2024-25), Simons averaged 19.3 points, 4.8 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game. SI+1
Despite solid production, he contended with efficiency issues down the stretch: shooting percentages dipped, and a right forearm injury sidelined him late in the year. RotoWire
The trade to Boston brings a different role. With star guard Jayson Tatum out for a large portion (or potentially all) of the forthcoming season due to injury, Simons is expected to provide offensive lift. However, he will likely operate behind the likes of Derrick White and Payton Pritchard in the rotation, implying a shift from primary creator to efficient shooter and spark plug. RotoWire
What’s At Stake?
For Simons, this season is a “prove it” campaign.
- Contract status: His current deal expires after this season, giving both him and Boston a short-term window to assess fit. SI
- Role change: He moves from being the primary scoring option in Portland to a more specialized role in Boston. A successful adaptation (in volume, efficiency, and even defense) could raise his free-agency value.
- Fit in system: The Celtics’ offense emphasizes ball movement and three-point shooting. Given Simons’ outside shooting ability, he may thrive in more catch-and-shoot roles rather than iso sets he was often tasked with in Portland. RotoWire
Strengths & Challenges
Strengths
- Proven scorer: Simons has demonstrated the ability to drop 20+ points per game.
- Shooting ability: He has shown range and volume from three-point territory.
- Athleticism & youth: At 26, he is entering his physical prime and has a few seasons of upside remaining.
Challenges
- Defense: In Portland, Simons was often criticized for his defensive lapses. Improving this side of his game will be key in Boston’s system.
- Efficiency: Recent dip in shooting percentages and the wear of carrying heavy offensive loads are concerns.
- Uncertainty of role: With a crowded backcourt in Boston and his contract status up in the air, his role may shift or shrink depending on performance and team direction.
Latest Update & Outlook
A few notable updates:
- Simons has already clarified that the Celtics’ coaching staff is working on his defensive fundamentals—something he admits he “had never really worked on or been taught” in his earlier years. Blazer’s Edge
- Reports suggest that Boston may again explore trading him before the February 2026 deadline, using him as an asset rather than committing long-term. SI
For fans and observers, keep an eye on these metrics this season:
- His three-point attempts and makes: will he maintain or improve volume/efficiency?
- Usage rate vs. efficiency: a high usage but low efficiency could hurt his value.
- Defensive metrics: steals, deflections, defensive rating improvement will be key for his development.
- Team role and minutes: whether he starts, comes off the bench, or sees a fluctuating role will influence both his individual performance and future market.