Quick Read
- Anfernee Simons scored 15 points in the Boston Celtics’ 146-115 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.
- Simons has appeared in all 33 Celtics games this season, ranking fifth in minutes and third in three-point field goals made.
- He is on track to play postseason basketball for the first time since the 2020-21 season, fulfilling a long-held goal.
- The Celtics are 9-3 when Simons scores at least 15 points and 14-6 when he attempts at least 10 shots.
- Boston outscores opponents by 2.9 points per 100 possessions when Simons is on the court, and he improves teammates’ efficiency.
The roar of the crowd, the high stakes, the relentless pursuit of victory – for Boston Celtics guard Anfernee Simons, the postseason has been a distant dream for five long years. But as the 2025-26 NBA season unfolds, that dream is rapidly becoming a tangible reality. Simons, a player whose journey to Boston was initially framed by trade rumors and cost-cutting measures, has meticulously carved out a crucial role for himself, transforming from a trade chip into an indispensable catalyst for one of the league’s top teams.
Just recently, the Celtics delivered a resounding statement, routing the Los Angeles Clippers 146-115 in a dominant performance that saw Jaylen Brown erupt for a career-high 50 points. While Brown’s scoring spectacle rightly grabbed headlines, Simons’ contribution, though more subtle, was equally vital. He chipped in 15 points and, crucially, combined with Brown for 11 points during a pivotal third-quarter surge that helped the Celtics pull away. This included two impressive 28-foot three-pointers, showcasing his expanding range and confidence. This victory, as reported by 92.1 The Ticket, extended Boston’s impressive run to 12-3 since November 30, solidifying their position as a formidable force in the Eastern Conference.
From Trade Bait to Playoff Contender: Simons’ Resurgence
Simons’ path to this moment has been anything but conventional. Acquired by the Celtics in a deal centered around moving Jrue Holiday, he initially found himself at the heart of trade speculation. Yet, Simons’ ambition has always been clear. As far back as October 2023, he articulated his primary objective to Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian: “We want to win. We want to make the playoffs. That’s everybody’s goal.” This unwavering focus, coupled with a relentless work ethic, has allowed him to transcend initial expectations and become a cornerstone of the Celtics’ resurgence.
For a player who last tasted postseason basketball in the 2020-21 season, the current trajectory must feel like a breath of fresh air. The Celtics, currently third in the Eastern Conference, are not just offering Simons a chance at the playoffs; they are actively gifting him a long-awaited opportunity to compete on the biggest stage. This isn’t merely about individual statistics; it’s about a player finding his rhythm and purpose within a championship-contending squad.
The Unseen Impact: How Simons Elevates the Celtics
Simons’ impact extends far beyond the raw numbers. He has appeared in all 33 of the Celtics’ games this season, ranking fifth on the team in minutes per contest. His offensive contributions are significant, placing him third in three-point field goals made and fourth in both scoring and assists for the team. What truly sets him apart, however, is his commitment to mistake-free basketball, averaging a mere 1.0 turnover per showing. In the high-stakes environment of the NBA, ball security is paramount, and Simons delivers.
But his influence isn’t confined to the offensive end. Simons has quietly developed into an exceptional off-ball defender, a skill often overlooked but critical in Boston’s defensive schemes. He ranks in the 85th percentile in off-ball chaser defense and the 77th percentile in ball screen navigation. These aren’t flashy statistics, but they underscore his adaptability and commitment to the team’s overall success. In a league increasingly focused on two-way players, Simons is proving his worth on both ends of the court, demonstrating that true impact often lies in the details.
A Winning Influence: The Numbers Don’t Lie
The correlation between Simons’ presence and the Celtics’ success is striking. When he scores at least 20 points, Boston holds a 4-1 record. That record improves to 9-3 when he finishes with a minimum of 15 points, and an impressive 14-6 when he attempts at least 10 shots. These figures are not mere coincidence; they highlight a player whose increased involvement directly translates into team victories.
Perhaps the most compelling evidence of Simons’ value comes from his on/off court metrics. The Celtics outscore opponents by 8.0 points per 100 possessions when Simons is on the court, compared to 5.1 points when he isn’t. This respectable difference of 2.9 points per 100 possessions speaks volumes about his positive net impact. Furthermore, his presence seems to unlock the potential of his teammates. Jaylen Brown’s true shooting percentage improves by a notable 7.4 percent when Simons is playing, and Derrick White averages 5.8 more points per 75 possessions. These aren’t minor fluctuations; they are significant statistical boosts that underscore Simons’ ability to facilitate and enhance the performance of other key players.
Boston’s recent triumph over the Clippers, where they shot an impressive 55.2% from the field and matched their season high for points, serves as a testament to the collective strength being forged. While Jaylen Brown’s historic 50-point outing was the headline, the underlying narrative is one of a team where every piece, including Simons, is contributing meaningfully to a cohesive and potent unit. The Celtics’ ability to dominate a strong Clippers team, which had been on a six-game winning streak, highlights their growing confidence and depth.
The Road Ahead: Playoff Hopes and Beyond
As the Celtics continue their charge through the season, Simons’ hard work and commitment to adapting to Boston’s culture are clearly paying dividends. His journey from a player embroiled in trade rumors to a vital component of a top-tier team is a testament to his resilience and dedication. The playoff stage, once a distant aspiration, is now firmly within his grasp, and he is seizing the opportunity with both hands.
Anfernee Simons has transitioned from a supporting player to a genuine difference-maker for the Boston Celtics. His consistent two-way play, combined with his ability to elevate the performance of his star teammates, makes him an undeniable force as the Celtics eye a deep playoff run. His journey underscores the profound impact a focused player can have when given the right platform, proving that sometimes, the most valuable assets are those who adapt, commit, and relentlessly pursue their long-held goals.