The Boston Celtics entered the offseason looking for ways to balance talent upgrades with financial flexibility. After moving Georges Niang to duck under the second luxury tax apron, the team filled that open roster spot with veteran forward Chris Boucher.
It was a savvy, calculated move from Brad Stevens. But it might have also ended their pursuit of former No. 1 pick and three-time All-Star Ben Simmons.
Boucher Alters Celtics’ Offseason Equation
Boucher brings valuable frontcourt depth and floor-spacing ability after averaging 10.0 points and 4.5 rebounds while shooting 36.3% from three last season for the Toronto Raptors.
The 32-year-old fits Boston’s system, helps keep them under the tax threshold and replaces the rotation spot Niang vacated. It’s the kind of roster-building move that has defined the Celtics’ approach under Stevens.
But according to Brett Siegel, it also means Simmons is likely off the table.
Simmons’ Market Shifts to the Knicks
Not long ago, the Celtics were viewed as a possible landing spot for Simmons. Chris Forsberg even described the 6-foot-10 guard as the type of “random swing” the team could take.
The New York Knicks now appear to be the frontrunners, with Siegel reporting that they’re the favorites to sign him to a minimum deal. For New York, Simmons would be a no-risk depth piece behind Jalen Brunson, offering playmaking and defensive versatility.
Simmons’ numbers last season — 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists in 22 minutes per game across 51 appearances — show just how far he’s fallen since his early All-Star years. But at the right price, he still brings a unique skill set.
What’s Next for Boston?
The Celtics still have room to maneuver after signing Boucher and waiving Miles Norris. Stevens has shown a willingness to wait for the right opportunity, and Boston’s roster remains one of the deepest in the league.
Simmons may be heading elsewhere, but the Celtics have checked a major box by adding Boucher while keeping future flexibility intact. Whether that leads to another move before the season begins remains to be seen.
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