Rumors have suggested that the Boston Celtics could still look to move on from Anfernee Simons, despite recently acquiring him in a deal for Jrue Holiday.
The Celtics did that move to save money, and it made perfect sense from Brad Stevens' perspective. The Celtics knew coming into the off-season that they had to cut costs in some way, and they did that by moving on from the two-time NBA champion.
However, by moving Simons, the Celtics could further do that.
In a recent trade idea from Sports Illustrated, they'd accomplished just that once again. The deal would involve moving on from Simons to the Chicago Bulls.
Hawks Receive: Sam Hauser
Celtics Receive: Kevin Huerter, Julian Phillips, a 2026 2nd round pick (via ATL), and a 2032 2nd round pick (via ATL)
Bulls Receive: Anfernee Simons
“This is another cost cutting move and nothing more. Huerter can try and replicate Hauser's production and is on an expiring contract while Phillips is a cheap bench option. This gets Boston under the luxury tax and opens up a lot of money for next season when Tatum will be back,” they wrote.
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This is an intriguing trade to consider, and while the Celtics would be a worse team because of it, as Sports Illustrated touched on, it'd help them save money.
For that reason alone, it makes sense.
However, if they believe they have any chance in the Eastern Conference next season, which still might not be out of the question given how talented the Celtics are, it might be better to keep Simons on the roster.