The Boston Celtics are gearing up for a very different season than the previous several campaigns. For the first time in a long time, the Celtics are not entering the year with a championship-or-bust mindset. This transition period during Jayson Tatum's injury absence is best represented by newcomer Anfernee Simons.
Simons, who was acquired from the Portland Trail Blazers in the Jrue Holiday trade, is in a unique situation. He is entering the final year of his deal that pays him $27.6 million for the 2025-26 season. He finally has the chance to prove himself on a team with serious aspirations, but if he plays well, he will be out of Boston's price range at the end of the season. Therefore, this season will almost be his audition for the rest of the league.
Anfernee Simons Given Harsh Truths by Joe Mazzulla
That is why his press conference at the Media Day was particularly fascinating. Simons was very honest about his goals, expectations, and the conversations he had with Joe Mazzulla. Everything he said during the presser suggests that the Celtics delivered some harsh truths to the 26-year-old.
Speaking to Celtics insider John Karalis, the dynamic guard said that he has been talking about his defense to Mazzulla, who told him, "You are not as bad as people say you are" on the defensive side of the ball. At first, that may seem like a compliment, but it's clear that Mazzulla is making Simons' defense a major point of emphasis. Considering how bad most people think Simons' defense is, it is also damning with faint praise.
Simons then went on to say that he knows how much work he has to put in on the defensive side of the ball, saying, "It's just a matter of if I want to do it or not," and that he is "pretty excited about being pushed to a new level."
So far, it sounds like Mazzulla's pressure on Simons is working. The talented point guard is at least saying the right things ahead of the new season.
Whether this makes him a different, more well-rounded player on the court, however, is a different question.
Simons has been on a rebuilding team in the past several seasons. He was the go-to guy on offense for a non-playoff team, playing over 30 minutes and taking over 16 shots a game, regardless of his defensive effort. That will not be the case in Boston. He will be expected to play both sides of the floor and will be benched if he doesn't deliver.
Payton Pritchard and Derrick White are already there, with more familiarity, experience, and all-around games. Simons needs to put his money where his mouth is. Otherwise, we all know how ruthless Brad Stevens and Joe Mazzulla can be.