BOSTON – The Celtics are 19–12 and sit third in the Eastern Conference. They dropped their Sunday night game to Portland despite Jaylen Brown’s 37 points. Notably, the Joe Mazzulla underutilized Anfernee Simons in his first return to the team that drafted him back in 2018.
Will Celtics’ Joe Mazzulla Ever Trust Anfernee Simons?
A Role That Still Feels Unsettled
Mazzulla has led Boston past most preseason expectations. He has even exceeded those of the most optimistic fans. Simons has fit into Mazzulla’s plans as a bench piece. That role contrasts sharply with his last three seasons in Portland. He started every game he played there.
Simons averages 13 points, two rebounds, and two assists. He does so in almost 24 minutes per game. He shoots 37 percent from behind the arc. Mazzulla has handled his minutes inconsistently all season. Simons has appeared in 23 games with more than 20 minutes played. He has also logged several games under 12 minutes.
Defense Drives the Inconsistency
This inconsistency stems from his lack of defense. He has struggled on that end throughout his career. Simons has shown more effort defensively this season. He still has not emerged as a reliable individual or system defender. That reality explains Mazzulla’s usage patterns.
Sunday night in Portland highlighted the issue. Simons led all Celtics with eight third-quarter points. He scored them in just over a minute. That burst earned him only three fourth-quarter minutes. He did not attempt a shot in that span. Mazzulla clearly did not trust him. Frankly, Mazzulla may never trust Simons due to his defensive shortcomings.
Contract Pressure and Trade Talk
The talented guard is in the final year of his $100 million contract. He will become an unrestricted free agent this summer. With the trade deadline just over a month away, discussion around his future will intensify.
A Limited Market Emerges
The Celtics have struggled to find a willing trade partner since acquiring Simons this summer. His $27.6 million salary this season complicates negotiations despite his contract being an expiring. His defensive limitations further reduce interest. Still, as the deadline approaches, some teams may engage. Simons can still spearhead an offense. He can also provide a scoring spark off the bench. That value depends on touches and usage he has yet to receive in Boston.