Should the Boston Celtics roll with Anfernee Simons or Payton Pritchard in the starting backcourt? Several factors shape the decision.
To begin with, Simonsโ place in Boston isnโt guaranteed. While it looks likely heโll still be on the roster when training camp opens, Steve Bulpett of Heavy.com recently reported that the Celtics are open to flipping him. Even if that doesnโt happen before opening night, a move before the February trade deadline would hardly be a shock.
This season is shaping up as a transition year for Boston, with a focus on financial flexibility. Cutting salary and trimming their luxury tax bill is central to building a stronger roster once Jayson Tatum returns from rehabbing his torn Achilles. The Celtics could keep Simonsโ $27.7 million expiring deal on the books, but if they donโt see him as part of their long-term core alongside Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White, itโs tough to justify starting him over Pritchard. Boosting Simonsโ trade value is a possible motivation, but after seven seasons, rival teams already know what he brings to the table.
From a basketball standpoint, the case for Pritchard is clear. Simons is a proven scorerโaveraging 20 points per game across the past four seasons and hitting threes both off the dribble and on the catch. But while his offensive talent is unquestioned, Pritchard is the more complete player.
Fresh off winning Sixth Man of the Year, Pritchard has developed into a reliable defender, holding his own against elite guards like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Cade Cunningham, and Luka Donฤiฤ. He credits his defensive leap to improved strength, speed, conditioning, and a fearless mentality. On top of that, Pritchard is a high-level shooter and capable floor general, making him a stronger fit as a two-way starter next to White.
Factor in that Boston views Pritchard as part of its future while being open to moving Simons, and the answer becomes straightforward: the starting spot belongs to Pritchard.
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