Anfernee Simons is still settling into life with the Boston Celtics.
The Celtics brought Simons over from the Portland Trail Blazers in a trade that sent Jrue Holiday the other way.
While he hasn’t fully found his rhythm yet, there have been glimpses of what he can offer, including a 25-point showing against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Anfernee Simons admits he was “hurt” when he was traded from Portland to Boston
Simons spoke about how the trade caught him off guard and shared that it wasn’t an easy change for him at first:
“It was tough. It hurt because I didn’t know it was coming. It hit me out of nowhere. The love for the city and everything I built up there made it difficult to leave,” Simons said. “When you get close to something or someone and have put your all into them, then they let you go like that, it can sting.”
Simons hasn’t been able to fully make his mark on this team so far, but there’s still plenty of time left in the season. He’s had stretches where he’s shown what he can do, particularly on offence.
This trade could be a good thing for both sides in the long run. Simons just needs more time to settle in and find his spot within the team.
Anfernee Simons on why moving to the Celtics was the right fit for him
Simons spent seven years with the Blazers. Drafted by Portland in 2018, Simons stayed with the team until he was moved to Boston in July.
Though he put up solid stats during his time in Portland, the team wasn’t close to contending. While expectations are low for a title this year, Boston still has a core of players with championship experience.
Simons said when he learned he was going to Boston, it was exactly what he was looking for.
Anfernee Simons discusses his progress with the Celtics
Simons has come off the bench in each of Boston’s first eight games, playing a steady role as he continues to find his place.
He’s putting up 13.9 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game while averaging 26.5 minutes on the court. His shooting has been efficient too, hitting 40.8 percent from the floor and 37.5 percent from three-point range.
The 26-year-old has also made noticeable strides defensively this season, committing more fully to that side of the ball and showing real improvement.
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Simons spoke about how he’s grown with Boston so far this year: “The physicality on the defensive end, the awareness.”
With a solid opportunity in front of him, Simons has a chance to carve out an even bigger role and help keep Boston firmly in the mix in the Eastern Conference.
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