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Celtics Trade Simons for Vucevic, Save $6 Million

2/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Boston Celtics traded Anfernee Simons and a second-round pick to the Chicago Bulls for Nikola Vucevic and a second-round pick.
Nikola Vucevic averages 16.9 points and 9.0 rebounds per game and is expected to start for Boston.
Anfernee Simons averaged 14.2 points off the bench this season and has an expiring contract.
The deal saves Boston about $6 million and helps them avoid luxury tax penalties.

History

Historical Context

The 2011 NBA lockout, lasting 161 days, stemmed from disputes over revenue sharing and salary cap structures, following the expiration of the 2005 collective bargaining agreement. The new agreement, ratified on December 8, 2011, introduced a luxury tax system, compelling teams like the Boston Celtics to manage payroll strategically, as demonstrated by their trade of Anfernee Simons for Nikola Vucevic, saving approximately $6 million.

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Story summary

The Boston Celtics traded Anfernee Simons and a second-round pick to the Chicago Bulls for Nikola Vucevic and a second-round pick.
Nikola Vucevic averages 16.9 points and 9.0 rebounds per game and is expected to start for Boston.
Anfernee Simons averaged 14.2 points off the bench this season and has an expiring contract.
The deal saves Boston about $6 million and helps them avoid luxury tax penalties.

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