Anfernee Simons had his best performance in a Boston Celtics uniform to date on Thursday night, as he dropped 39 points, four rebounds, four assists, and seven three-pointers to lead the team to a 119-114 road win over the Miami Heat.
Simons has fully embraced his role as the Boston Celtics’ sixth man, and the 26-year-old credited the coaching staff for pushing him to his limits, which includes stepping up on the defensive end this season.
“To be honest, I know I could improve for sure… I never thought I was the worst defender in the league. But, everybody can say anything, some data might prove it, but I always thought I could at least impactful on that side of the ball, defending in the league,” Simons told Noa Dalzell of SB Nation.
“I’m happy that the coaching staff believed in me to bring that out. It’s been fun, them pushing me to be that each and every night. I’m appreciative of them believing in me that I can do it — and push me to do it,” he added.
Boston Celtics react to Anfernee Simons’ 39-point performance vs. Miami Heat
Anfernee Simons caught fire against the Miami Heat on Thursday night, drawing praise from his Boston Celtics teammates, including Sam Hauser and Jaylen Brown.
“He was in that mode tonight, where, let’s get him the ball and get out of the way and let him be special, and he was,” Hauser said of Simons.
“He’s probably more talented than the role that he’s placed in. I think that’s kind of obvious. But I have a hell of respect for him to come out, play winning basketball, and do what the team needs to do…Doesn’t complain, just brings good energy, and contributes,” Brown said.
