Anfernee Simons explodes in second half as Celtics beat Bulls

Anfernee Simons turned it on in the second half 

In the second half, Simons, who entered the day averaging only 13.1 points per game, sunk 9-of-14 shots from the field and eight triples. His eight second half three-pointers matched teammate Payton Pritchard and 2008 NBA champion Eddie House for the most threes off the bench in Celtics history. 

Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla praised Simons' work ethic and ability to gel with the team after the game. The 2025-26 season marks Simons' first with Boston after he spent his previous seven NBA years with the Portland Trail Blazers, who drafted him in the first round in 2018. 

Joe Mazzulla praised Anfernee Simons after the game

“What you see from him is kinda what you get. Just a guy that has come in with a great attitude. He's happy to be here, wants to do whatever it takes a win, and has an understanding in that. But also is super confident," said Mazzulla.

Simmons offered his own thoughts on his experience as a Celtic so far. 

“It’s been fun implementing myself into this culture … I feel like I’ve grown so much,” he said.

Adding to his impressive second half, Simmons also recorded three rebounds and three assists in 27 total minutes of action.

If the Celtics are going to stay contenders, especially with Jayson Tatum still recovering from an Achilles tear he suffered this past postseason, Brown will likely have to lead the way and continue making his case to be in the MVP conversation. But since that's a lot to put on one man's shoulders, Mazzulla has to love seeing role players like Simons step up for Brown occasionally.