With the departure of Anferni Simmons, the Celtics lose a friend

This Tuesday, the Celtics moved on Anfernee Simmons to recover Nikola Vucevic. Arriving from Portland last summer, the adventure in Massachusetts was short-lived. However, despite staying in Boston for just over six months, the 26-year-old found his place in the Celtics locker room and many regretted his departure.

“Anferni has all my respect. It’s a job, but we mustn’t forget the human dimension,” Jailen Brown’s rappelle. “Since he came here, he’s helped us win. He’s a good person, a good guy on and off the field, with exemplary humility. I hope he gets everything he wants because he fits in perfectly with this group.”

All Celtics players interviewed after the win Boston vs. Dallas remind us that the NBA is an increasingly cruel business during this “trade deadline” period. Baylor Scheierman, Luca Garza or even Payton Pritchardshowed their affection for the now ex-Celtic. The Boston guard specifically explained that it was complicated to see players like Al Horford, Jr. Holiday and now Anferna Simmons as they were appreciated in the locker room.

A human being before an athlete

You have to understand that they are more than players, they are human beings with families. points out Joe Mazzula. “The more you can create an environment where you’re there for these guys, the more it helps them get through a long season.”

The Celtics therefore worked to make Anfernee Simmons feel at home in Boston. Xavier Tilman stood out among the close-back players. Both fathers, their children were friends. Therefore, it is a heavy blow to the entire Tillman family who were also close to the Jrue Holiday clan, sent to Portland to recover Anferni Simmons in July.

“This is obviously the most complicated part,” admits Xavier Tillman. “Kids build relationships and hope they last forever. We told Ant.” (Anfernie Simmons) that we will spend time with family this summer because our children and our partners have formed very strong bonds. Everyone says it’s work, but you make connections and look after them. It’s always complicated to see friends leave. »