Anfernee Simons and the Boston Celtics have surprised everyone with their strong play in the 2025-26 NBA season. Over the summer, the Celtics lost Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis and Luke Kornet. On top of that, the team lost Jayson Tatum to a season-ending torn Achilles tendon during the 2025 NBA playoffs.
However, the Celtics have been competitive, even with a different group. They are 28-17, the second-best team in the Eastern Conference. Before the season started, Bleacher Report predicted that the team would finish with a 37-45 record. However, the club may finish higher than anticipated based on the current trend of games.
The Celtics are considering trading Simons and his expiring $27.6 million contract in light of the approaching trade deadline on Feb. 5. The team is looking to get a decent starting center in the trade market.
According to league insider Evan Sidery, the Celtics have explored trade options to upgrade their frontcourt.
“The Celtics are shopping Anfernee Simons’ $27.6 million expiring contract for an impact starting center,” Sidery posted on Sunday. “Boston has inquired on Ivica Zubac, Nic Claxton, Onyeka Okongwu, and Daniel Gafford during trade season.”
The Celtics are shopping Anfernee Simons’ $27.6 million expiring contract for an impact starting center.
Boston has inquired on Ivica Zubac, Nic Claxton, Onyeka Okongwu, and Daniel Gafford during trade season. pic.twitter.com/cs2TGkspkp
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) January 25, 2026
Simons has had a down year with the Celtics this season. However, this is primarily due to his position on the team’s bench. Through 45 games, he’s averaged 13.9 points and 2.5 assists on 39.6% shooting from 3.
Anfernee Simons has been linked to the Los Angeles Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers are reportedly looking to upgrade their guard position at the trade deadline. Anfernee Simons has been mentioned as a potential target by the West team. Clippers beat writer Tomer Azarly reported on the team being linked to Simons on Thursday.
“Other players that have been linked to the Clippers over the last several days are Collin Sexton, Anfernee Simons, and Coby White. All three players are on expiring contracts and are currently on teams that likely prefer to move them for the right price,” Azarly wrote.
The LA team could use a spark off the bench if they acquire Simons.
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