The Boston Celtics will be upset to have thrown away a 27-point lead in their 105-103 loss to the Toronto Raptors on Friday night, but there were still several encouraging developments that took place during this game. Perhaps the biggest among them was that the team’s newest big-name addition, Anfernee Simons, suited up for the C’s in this one.
After not playing in the team’s preseason opener against the Memphis Grizzlies, Simons drew the start alongside Payton Pritchard in the backcourt for this one, with both Jaylen Brown and Derrick White not playing. And during his time on the floor, Simons showed exactly what he’s capable of.
In 26 minutes, Simons dropped 18 points on 6/13 shooting, while also dishing out three assists and hauling in a pair of rebounds. He showed his craftiness by hitting a couple of tough layups, and also knocked down a pair of threes, although he needed seven attempts to get there.
Boston wants to work on improving Simons’ offensive efficiency and his defensive abilities, and while it’s only a preseason game, he showed a lot of upside against the Raptors. Afterwards, Simons opened up on his debut, revealing that he was a bit nervous to be on the court for the Celtics.
“A little nervous at first, but I think in the 2nd half, I kind of calmed down and started to play my game a little bit more,” Simons said after the game.
Story continues below advertisement
Simons’ role with Boston is still a bit murky. He could start in the backcourt alongside White, or he could come off the bench and fill the sparkplug role Pritchard has made his own over the past few seasons.
Regardless of that, it’s clear that Simons has unique scoring abilities that will make him a key piece of the Celtics for the upcoming season. Boston will return to action for its third preseason contest on Sunday when it squares off against the Cleveland Cavaliers.