Newly signed guard Anfernee Simons said he is eager to adapt to Boston’s winning environment and improve defensively as the Celtics opened training camp Monday in Brighton, Mass.
“I was super excited to come here and join a culture that’s already been set,” the 26-year-old told reporters. Simons averaged 20.7 points across 178 games the past three seasons with Portland, but acknowledged a reputation for below-average defense. “It’s a matter of if I want to do it or not; it’s really that simple,” he said, adding that head coach Joe Mazzulla has pushed him to reach a new level on that end of the court.
Simons vs. Pritchard Not an Either-Or Decision
Speculation that either Simons or guard Payton Pritchard would start was quickly dismissed. “Those two don’t go hand-in-hand. They’re completely different,” Mazzulla said, indicating roles will be determined independently.
Tatum Stays Patient With Achilles Rehab
All-NBA forward Jayson Tatum, sidelined by a torn right Achilles, posted on-court workout footage Sunday but emphasized there is no timetable for his return. “There’s no pressure to return back any sooner than when I’m 100 percent healthy,” Tatum said, noting full support from president of basketball operations Brad Stevens and the medical staff.
Boucher Chooses Boston for Winning Environment
Veteran big man Chris Boucher, who spent seven seasons with Toronto, said Boston’s consistent success attracted him in free agency. “I still have a lot to give to the game, so I wanted to go somewhere with a winning culture and energy,” Boucher explained, adding that Stevens had pursued him for several years.
Hauser Reflects on Trade Rumors
Wing Sam Hauser, the subject of offseason trade chatter, admitted the rumors were hard to ignore. “If I was gonna get shipped, great. I stayed, thankfully. I’m glad to be here,” he said, expressing appreciation for the organization that originally took a chance on him.
Horford and Kornet Received Bigger Offers Elsewhere
Stevens said Boston attempted to retain Al Horford and Luke Kornet in free agency but acknowledged the contracts offered by Golden State and San Antonio were more favorable for the players.
The Celtics enter the 2025/26 season without Horford, Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis, and with Tatum’s return uncertain, leaving a new group of veterans to shape the locker-room culture.
Source: HoopsRumors
