The Boston Celtics could soon part ways with one of their most talented scorers as they continue reshaping their roster to manage salary cap pressures. Following a busy 2025 offseason that saw several leave, reports suggest that the Celtics may look to move both Anfernee Simons and possibly Sam Hauser to further reduce luxury-tax costs.
After their 2024 run, Boston’s front office made several tough decisions to restructure financially. Kristaps Porzingis, and Jrue Holiday were all traded in a calculated effort to move below the second tax apron.
Holiday’s departure brought in a promising return. The Boston Celtics acquired Anfernee Simons from the Portland Trail Blazers, a 6-foot-3 guard known for his scoring and shooting touch.
Simons, who shot 38.1% from three across his career, added offensive firepower to Boston’s lineup. But even with Simons on board, the team remains roughly $12.1 million above the $187.9 million luxury-tax threshold, with repeater tax penalties looming.
Boston’s situation has sparked speculation that the front office could pursue salary-dump trades before the 2025-26 deadline. According to Sporting News’ Dean Simon, “Unless their depleted roster works its way back into championship contention, the Boston Celtics might be motivated to keep slashing and burning, which could put Anfernee Simons on the chopping block.”
Simons’ $100 million deal makes him an obvious trade candidate. Unless Boston Celtics parts with one of its core trio — Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, or Derrick White, trading Simons could be the clearest path to financial relief. A move cutting at least $12.1 million in salary would allow the Celtics to dip below the tax line and avoid further penalties.
Sam Hauser’s name entering trade discussions would surprise many. The undrafted forward has earned recognition as one of the league’s most reliable shooters, holding a 42.0% career mark from deep. The Boston Celtics rewarded him with a four-year, $45 million deal in 2024, but its new cost-conscious approach could force a change.
With Jayson Tatum sidelined due to an Achilles injury, the Celtics appear focused on financial recalibration and player development this season. Trading Simons or Hauser would further highlight that shift, a “gap year” mindset as Boston balances its future between contention and cap control.
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