Atlantic Division Roundup: Simons Trade Talk, Queta’s EuroBasket Debut, Nets’ Cap Space, G League Swap
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The Boston Celtics remain willing to entertain trade proposals for guard Anfernee Simons, league sources told Steve Bulpett of Heavy.com on August 29. One front-office executive said Boston might benefit from keeping the 25-year-old through the opening months of the season before making a decision.
According to the executive, Simons is the club’s second-most prolific scorer behind Jaylen Brown and could even lead the team in points while playing under head coach Joe Mazzulla’s reconfigured offense. “He’s going to have the ball a lot, and that dude can really score,” the source said.
Simons is entering the final season of a $27.7 million contract. Boston, which has already slipped below the NBA’s second tax apron, is reportedly exploring ways to trim additional salary to approach—or fall below—the first apron. Another executive told Bulpett the Celtics are unlikely to accept contracts that add long-term money, making the trade deadline the likeliest window to move Simons unless an unexpected offer emerges.
Queta Dominates EuroBasket Opener
Celtics center Neemias Queta posted 23 points and 18 rebounds in Portugal’s 62-50 win over Czechia in its first EuroBasket game, Semih Tuna of Eurohoops reported. Queta and Portugal will face a tougher test on Friday against Nikola Jokić and Serbia.
Nets Exploring Options for Remaining Cap Room
C.J. Holmes of the New York Daily News noted that the Brooklyn Nets could use their remaining cap space to help the Dallas Mavericks shed salary as Dallas attempts to clear enough room to sign Dante Exum. Brooklyn is considered a logical destination for any contracts Dallas is looking to move.
Blue Coats Add Malcolm Hill, Future Pick
The Delaware Blue Coats, G League affiliate of the Philadelphia 76ers, acquired the returning rights to forward Malcolm Hill and South Bay’s 2026 first-round pick in a three-team trade involving the South Bay Lakers and Birmingham Squadron, the club announced. Delaware sent out the returning rights to longtime guard Jared Brownridge, who sits third on the G League’s all-time list with 663 regular-season three-pointers.
Source: Hoops Rumors
