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Brad Stevens Takes Clear Stance on Celtics-Blazers Trade

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Elie Deglaoui | Last updated Jul 14, 2025 1:49 PM ET

Earlier this offseason, the Boston Celtics traded Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Anfernee Simons. It was no surprise that the Celtics ended up trading Holiday as they aimed to get under the second apron. However, the return was a bit shocking.

Due to his age and big contract, it seemed like a given that Boston would have to attach assets for Holiday in a salary dump. Instead, they acquired a young talent in Simons, who turned 26 years old in June.

As the Celtics look to gain more financial flexibility ahead of what most expect to be a gap year, there are some questions about Simons' future with the team. However, team president Brad Stevens recently took a clear stance on the trade.

While Simons provides a lot of offensive value to Boston, his defense is questionable at best. For a Celtics team that prioritizes two-way play, the Florida native's overall fit is interesting. However, according to Stevens, it seems that Simon is going to remain in Boston heading into the offseason despite previous rumors.

"It's part of this new CBA and obviously the 2nd apron…we're lucky to get the guys that we got back in those trades, specifically Simons and Niang," Stevens said about the Celtics' offseason trades.

Brad Stevens on the broadcast talking losses: "It's part of this new CBA and obviously the 2nd apron...we're lucky to get the guys that we got back in those trades, specifically Simons and Niang."

"When they come back to Boston this year, it'll be pretty special, the tributes"
— Bobby Manning (@RealBobManning) July 13, 2025

With star Jayson Tatum expected to miss next season with an Achilles injury, the Celtics are not likely to be legitimate title contenders in 2026. However, with how wide-open the Eastern Conference is, they could still make some noise. And if Stevens' comments are any indication, they will likely have Simons around as they attempt to do exactly that.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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