Anfernee Simons is the Celtics ‘Name to Know’ Player of the Game in Sunday’s win vs. Cavaliers

Anfernee Simons played in his first game in Boston as the Celtics blew out the Cavaliers in preseason action.

The Celtics got their main starters and rotation guys playing time, blowing out the Cavaliers in a 138-107 win Sunday at TD Garden. There was no big collapse as the reserves finished off Sunday’s victory. Last time out, the C’s blew a 27-point lead as the Raptors rallied for the victory. The Celtics finish off preseason play by facing the Raptors again at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in Boston.

Coming off the win, Sunday night’s “Name to Know” Player of the Game goes to guard Anfernee Simons. The Name to Know Player of the Game is sponsored by John’s Sewer and Drain Cleaning, the Name to Know when your drains don’t flow.

It was the first time Simons played in front of the TD Garden crowd, coming off the bench for the Celtics. He finished with 21 points, shooting 6-for-12 from the field and 6-for-9 on 3-pointer in his 25 minutes. Whenever there was an open shot, Simons was aggressive as he delighted the home crowd. He also added two rebounds and two assists.

Simons was acquired by the Celtics in the Jrue Holiday trade over the summer, marking the first time he switched teams in his career. While there are questions about his defense, there’s no denying Simons’ track record in the NBA as a scorer. He hasn’t looked completely comfortable yet, but it’s just his second game with the Celtics.

It’s unclear what the future holds for Simons considering he has one year and $27.7 million left on his contract. He’s reportedly been in trade rumors as the organization shed payroll significantly over the summer. But Simons is with the Celtics for now, and he’s spoken about the opportunity that comes with playing for a marquee franchise.

So, regardless of what next season holds, it’ll behoove Simons to produce in what’s ultimately a contract year. How Simons holds up defensively is the big concern; he’s fouled a lot in the preseason thus far. But Simons has been realistic about his standing as he enters a crucial season in Boston.

Simons has put together some solid games in preseason. He scored 18 points against the Raptors in his C’s debut. It’ll be about the intangibles — defense, rebounding — that will determine how much overall impact he can make during his time in Boston.

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Category: General Sports