The Boston Celtics and New York Knicks were two teams reportedly expressing interest in signing Ben Simmons earlier this offseason. However, both sides may prefer going in a different direction.
The Celtics added to their front court by signing Chris Boucher. ESPN's Shams Charania reports that the former Toronto Raptor is expected to have a "significant role" with his new team.
Boston has an open regular-season roster spot. However, according to Brian Robb of MassLive, the franchise may prefer to preserve that vacancy. That would help maximize tax savings.
The Celtics could still swing back and swoop up the three-time All-Star, but signing him seems less likely than it did before bringing Boucher on board.
Knicks may prefer to bring back a familiar face
Like Boston, New York has one remaining roster spot left. While the former franchise was previously linked to Simmons, Ian Begley of SNY recently reported that the Knicks may have more interest in re-signing Landry Shamet.
We’re live talking Knicks’ salary cap numbers, Mikal Bridges extension, what NYK can & can’t do moving forward & other topics with @sportrac cap expert @KeithSmithNBA on The Putback: https://t.co/yQLjyz29NK
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) August 12, 2025
"I'm talking about Shamet, because I think there is still mutual interest there. If I'm guessing, I'm guessing it ends up with Shamet getting one of those spots," voiced Begley on The Putback.
The veteran guard appeared in 50 games with New York last season. He averaged 5.7 points and knocked down 39.7 percent of the 3.1 threes he hoisted in his 15.2 minutes of playing time.
When head coach Tom Thibodeau finally expanded the Knicks' rotation after they went down 2-0 to the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, Shamet was one of the players he called upon.
The seven-year veteran responded by providing energy, solid defense, and reliable three-point shooting. While Thibodeau is no longer there, what he showcased in that opportunity could persuade New York to bring him back.
However, Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic reports that the Minnesota Timberwolves have also registered interest in Shamet.
If that happens, it could lead to the Knicks needing to pivot and bring Simmons on board to help with their efforts to return to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.
While New York may have to act fast to retain its preferred option, fortunately for the Knicks, Krawczynski adds of the Timberwolves' plans: "All indications are that Bones Hyland is the front-runner to get that final spot, league sources said."
If Hyland heads back to Minnesota, Shamet returns to New York, and the Celtics keep their final roster spot open, Simmons' search for a new NBA home may extend into at least September.