The Boston Celtics enter the 2025-26 campaign with a retooled roster following multiple cost-cutting moves this offseason.
In an effort to avoid second-apron penalties, Boston traded Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis in June, acquiring Anfernee Simons, Georges Niang and a second-round pick in the deals. However, Niang was eventually rerouted to the Utah Jazz, and Simons will seemingly be a trade candidate ahead of the deadline due to his expiring contract.
It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Celtics continue looking for more ways to shed salary, potentially even maneuvering under the first apron. With Jayson Tatum expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025-26 campaign due to a ruptured Achilles, Boston is unlikely to contend for a title and may instead prioritize gearing up for the 2026-27 season.
MORE: Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla shares his role in Jayson Tatum's recovery
Mock trade sends Anfernee Simons to Rockets
The Houston Rockets recently signed Fred VanVleet to a two-year, $50 million deal this summer, though he’s now in jeopardy of missing the entire season after suffering a torn ACL in late September. Brad Botkin of CBS Sports suggested the Rockets could target Simons to fill in for VanVleet this season, while the Celtics could get a worthwhile return.
“Boston took on Simons because he’s on an expiring deal whereas Holiday is due three more years, which is to say they probably aren’t tied all that tightly to him beyond giving him something of a free season as a tryout for inclusion in their future,” he wrote. “He’s set to make $27.6 million this season. VanVleet basically makes the money work. Houston can afford to throw in a draft pick and get a d— good offensive player without compromising any defensive parts.”
VanVleet is set to make over $2.6 million less than Simons this season, though he holds a player option for next season that he’s likely to exercise following his injury. Still, the veteran point guard could be a solid addition for Boston, which is looking to bounce back once Tatum returns to full strength.
Given their relatively unproven frontcourt and diminished title outlook, the Celtics may view trading Simons for VanVleet and draft capital as a viable step toward the future.
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