What Jayson Tatum thinks of Boston Celtics star who is expected to be traded

Jayson Tatum on Anfernee Simons’ debut season with the Boston Celtics

With Jayson Tatum out for the majority of the 2025-26 NBA season, it will allow younger players to get a better shot at making a name for themselves. Of course, that includes Simons.

Despite Simons being in trade rumors, it seems like Tatum is excited to see what the 26-year-old can do during his first season with the Celtics.

“We’re bringing in guys like Anfernee, who’s been very, very good in the NBA in a different environment, and now we’re bringing him into an environment.

“Where the expectations are a little different and he’s an unbelievable player, and I think he will thrive in a situation like that,” Tatum said during an interview with USA Today Sports.

Tatum’s statement will certainly serve as words of motivation for Simons ahead of the upcoming campaign. A campaign where Simons is expected to compete for a starting spot in the lineup.

Anfernee Simons has become a consistent scorer in his career

During his last season for the Trail Blazers, Simons finally proved that he can be a solid starter in the NBA.

After all, he averaged 19.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game in 70 appearances for the team. It was tied for most games played during a season in his career.

However, if there’s one thing that the former 24th overall pick needs to improve on, it’s his shooting efficiency. He shot 42.6% from the field and 36.3% from the three-point line last season.

Moreover, for his career, he has shot 43.1% from the field and 38.1% from deep. It will be interesting if head coach Joe Mazzulla can help Simons improve that aspect of his game next season.