NBA Rumors: Celtics, Anfernee Simons, Timberwolves, Jaden McDaniels, Knicks

Celtics

Boston is not in a hurry to duck the luxury tax.

According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Celtics have made it clear they are not interested in attaching a first-round pick to Anfernee Simons’ $27.7 million expiring contract in a pure cost-cutting move.

In other words, if Simons is moved, it will be for real value, not just tax relief.

There has been some feeler activity. Chicago previously inquired about a framework involving Simons and a first-round pick for Nikola Vucevic, but Boston had no interest in that direction.

The Celtics also explored a larger concept with the Clippers that would have sent Simons, a first-rounder, and a pick swap to Los Angeles for Ivica Zubac and filler. That path stalled, in part because the Clippers have surged recently and are not eager to move Zubac.

Boston remains open to frontcourt upgrades, but it is also weighing whether to move from its current depth. Neemias Queta has been solid in a starting role, and Luka Garza has stabilized the backup spot.

Chris Boucher and Xavier Tillman have drawn exploratory interest, with Scotto noting the Hawks, Sixers, and Suns as teams that have checked in on Boucher.

Timberwolves

Minnesota is listening. But not moving.

Scotto reports rival teams have called on Naz Reid, Jaden McDaniels, and Donte DiVincenzo.

The Wolves highly value all three, with McDaniels viewed as borderline untouchable. Reid and DiVincenzo would only be in play for an All-Star-level return.

Knicks

New York is willing to use the Wizards’ top-eight protected 2026 first-round pick in trade talks, per Scotto.

Even if it converts into second-rounders, league observers still view that future draft equity as meaningful given Washington’s rebuild timeline.