Anfernee Simons' 39-point night intensifies Celtics' trade-deadline questions

Cbssports reports that Anfernee Simons scored 39 points, including two late free throws, to seal a 119-114 road win over the Miami Heat — a franchise record for bench scoring in a road game and his highest scoring output with the Celtics. Traded to Boston in the Jrue Holiday deal, Simons has drawn trade speculation since arriving.

Boston trailed by 15 late in the third before Simons cut the deficit with a five-point burst, then dominated the fourth — during a five-minute stretch he scored or assisted on 17 consecutive points and hit a step-back 3 that put the Celtics ahead for good. He has been shooting better recently, averaging 18.3 points and 3.6 assists in January on 49% shooting and 51.6% from three.

Simons carries an expiring $27.6 million contract, making him a logical deadline piece as the Celtics seek frontcourt help after losing Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford and Luke Kornet last summer; Jake Fischer said the Celtics "have indeed been monitoring the big man market for potential trade options for some time." Moving Simons could also reduce Boston's luxury-tax exposure — the team is about $4 million over the first apron and $12 million over the tax line — and potentially bring back future contributors, while the roster still relies on depth pieces such as Neemias Queta and Luka Garza.

Key Topics

Sports, Anfernee Simons, Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, Jrue Holiday, Jayson Tatum