Earlier this summer, the Boston Celtics traded Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers. Brad Stevens made the move due to the Celtics second luxury tax apron status, and what was an impending $500 million payroll. Boston received Anfernee Simons as part of the trade.
However, it would appear that Holiday’s arrival in Portland has raised some eyebrows. In a recent article from ESPN, where they polled 20 coaches, scouts and executives, one Western Conference assistant coach questioned the Trail Blazers‘ decision to add the veteran guard.
“I just don’t get what they are trying to do,” The assistant coach said. “You can’t get enough time for all of their guards.”
Last season, the Trail Blazers began developing a reputation for stellar defensive play. Multiple members of their roster thrived on that side of the floor. Therefore, the decision to add Holiday was likely to continue building that foundation while also inserting a leader into the locker room.
Nevertheless, it’s true that Portland has multiple guards on the roster now. Therefore, the team may debate Holiday’s position within the rotation, especially once Damian Lillard recovers from his Achilles injury and receives clearance to play.
Jrue Holiday Isn’t Thinking About Retirement
Another reason the Celtics parted ways with Holiday, among other members of their 2024 championship-winning team, was the need to rebuild the supporting cast with younger, more athletic talent. Holiday is already 35 years old and has begun to show signs of age-related decline.
However, during a recent interview with DJ Siddiqi of RG.org, Holiday brushed off talk of a potential retirement, noting how he’s “just going along with it.”
“Just kind of going with it,” Holiday said. “I’ve been blessed enough to play for this long, and I’ve never taken that for granted. I know this is a dream come true for most young kids, but I know 17 years is a dream come true for any 35-year-old who gets a chance to stay as healthy as possible and to play the game that they love. I’ll just continue playing until I can’t anymore.”
Holiday is entering the second year of a four-year $134.5 million deal. He has a player option for the final season of that contract worth $37.2 million. As he will be 37 when it comes time to opt into that option, it is highly likely he chooses to see the entirety of the deal through.
Simons Faces Fight For Celtics Starting Role
While Holiday will be preparing for life in Portland, Simons will be gearing up for a roster battle with reigning Sixth Man of the Year, Payton Pritchard. Both guards have a viable claim for a starting role next season.
Nevertheless, Simons may have the edge. He’s already experienced at spearheading an offense, and could thrive playing alongside Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. Furthermore, the Celtics may opt to keep Pritchard coming off the bench due to the positive impact he had last season.
It’s also worth noting that Simons is on an expiring contract. By keeping him in the starting lineup, the Celtics could be looking to create interest in a potential trade. Therefore, it’s logical to expect Simons to fill the role of open guard spot left behind by Holiday, at least for the opening months of the season.
Former Celtics Guard’s Summer Move Questioned By NBA Coach