Jrue Holiday Trade Grades: Celtics Land Simons & Picks Blazers Face New Questions
Analysis of the Jrue Holiday–Anfernee Simons trade Celtics earn flexibility and assets with an A grade while Blazers face criticism and risk with a C grade amid their win now move .
On June 24 2025 the Boston Celtics traded veteran guard Jrue Holiday 35 to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Anfernee Simons 26 and two future second round picks The trade allows Boston to shed salary and recalibrate during the 2025–26 season with star Jayson Tatum sidelined due to an Achilles injury For Portland the move adds a defensive stalwart as they push toward playoff contention .
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Celtics’ Perspective A Grade for Financial Flexibility
The Celtics receive an A grade for this move Shedding Holiday’s 32–37 million contract helps the franchise relieve luxury tax pressures potentially saving around 40 million and improves long term cap flexibility While Simons is not an ideal defensive fit he adds instant scoring and could serve as a trade chip at the February deadline or walk in free agency The deal aligns with Boston’s cautious pivot in a season hampered by injury and opens the door for additional roster moves including a possible Kristaps Porzingis trade .
Blazers’ Gamble C Grade for Win Now Push
Portland earns a C for the trade Holiday enhances their perimeter defense but his age contract size three years 104M and declining offensive efficiency raise concerns With a young core that includes Scoot Henderson Shaedon Sharpe and rookie Donovan Clingan the Blazers still lack a franchise cornerstone The move risks compromising a rebuild in favor of short term improvement in an ultra competitive Western Conference .
Broader Impact & Open Questions
This trade reflects Portland’s aggressive attempt to fast track competitiveness similar to Houston’s recent veteran heavy approach However their youth core isn’t as developed While players like Deni Avdija and Toumani Camara bring defensive value the offensive growth of Henderson and Sharpe will be crucial It remains uncertain whether the team’s strategy will yield playoff results or come at the expense of long term sustainability .
Final Take
Celtics Smart move for asset flexibility and tax relief during a transitional year
Blazers Ambitious but potentially costly gamble banking on immediate success over long term growth .