Execs split on Celtics’ plans for Anfernee Simons as trade rumors linger

The Celtics are keeping Anfernee Simons’ name in the trade rumor mill. Very much so, in fact. At least according to one general manager who told Steve Bulpett of Heavy.com that Boston is still “very much willing” to talk trade scenarios involving the guard.

Not everyone in the league thinks that is wise. Another front office veteran suggested the Celtics might be better off holding onto Simons for a while. Maybe until they actually play a few games.

“Other than Jaylen Brown, there’s not a better scorer than Simons on that roster,” the exec said. “Nobody can score like him other than Brown. He’s the second-best scorer, and it’s not close. I bet he ends up their leading scorer. Even with Jaylen. He’s going to have the ball a lot, and that dude can really score.”

The numbers are what they are. Simons is on an expiring $27.7 million contract. Boston already dipped under the second tax apron and has reason to keep shedding money. But finding a trade partner who wants to take on that deal right now is another matter entirely.

“Anfernee Simons makes $27-plus million,” another exec told Bulpett. “Who’s got room to put that in their cap? He’s up after this year, so the Celtics aren’t going to want to take back anything that adds more money or less flexibility. Unless it’s a sweetheart deal, the most likely time Simons moves is at the trade deadline.”

That actually lines up with what makes the most sense. If the Celtics flame out, they dangle Simons as a rental. If another team believes it is a scorer away, Simons could be the piece. The league has shown time and again that an expiring contract still carries real value.

MORE CELTICS | All coverage from Hoops Wire