The Boston Celtics have made headlines yet again as their offseason continues to be filled with bold moves, surprising departures, and intriguing rumors. The team has reportedly waived an NBA champion in a decision that shocked many fans and analysts, signaling that the front office is far from done reshaping the roster for a serious title run. While the Celtics are coming off a strong season and still boast a core of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Kristaps Porziņģis, it’s evident that the organization is not afraid to make tough decisions in order to maintain their status as one of the NBA’s top contenders. At the same time, a former Celtic has signed a lucrative deal to play overseas in Israel, while the rumor mill is buzzing with speculation that Boston might consider making a move for Ben Simmons, the once-heralded star who is now seeking a fresh start. These developments have created a whirlwind of conversations about the direction of the Celtics and what the future holds as they aim for banner number 18.
The decision to waive an NBA champion is not one that any franchise takes lightly, and for Boston, it speaks to the level of expectation and competition within the team’s locker room. While the player in question had a decorated past, winning a championship with another franchise before joining Boston, the fit simply may not have been ideal for the team’s current needs. The Celtics are at a point where every roster spot matters, especially when they are chasing the likes of the Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat, and other Eastern Conference heavyweights. Waiving a champion could be seen as a strategic move to free up space for either a younger player with more upside or a potential midseason acquisition. Fans were understandably divided, with some expressing disappointment at seeing a proven winner leave, while others felt that Boston’s core was strong enough and that the front office made the right call by looking ahead rather than clinging to past accomplishments.
At the same time, the story of an ex-Celtic signing in Israel adds an international dimension to Boston’s offseason narratives. Many NBA players have found great success overseas, especially in leagues like Israel’s Winner League, which is known for its high level of competition and passionate fanbases. For a former Celtic, signing abroad could represent both a financial opportunity and a chance to rebuild or extend their career in a different environment. This move also highlights how global the basketball landscape has become. While the NBA is the pinnacle of professional basketball, the overseas market is increasingly attractive to players who might not have a guaranteed role on an NBA roster. Former Celtics fans often keep a close eye on these players, especially those who were beloved during their time in Boston. It is not uncommon for ex-Celtics to find renewed stardom in international leagues, and this move will surely generate interest from fans who still follow their career paths.
Then there is the elephant in the room: the possibility of Ben Simmons landing in Boston. Simmons has had a roller-coaster few years since his days as an All-NBA talent and Defensive Player of the Year candidate with the Philadelphia 76ers. Once regarded as one of the brightest young stars in the league, Simmons’ career has been marred by injuries, mental health struggles, and a loss of confidence, particularly in his offensive game. However, his defensive versatility and playmaking abilities are still highly respected, and it is easy to imagine a scenario where the Celtics believe they can help Simmons revive his career. Simmons, when healthy and confident, is a game-changer on defense and a unique facilitator on offense, standing at 6’10” with the ability to guard multiple positions and push the ball in transition. A move to Boston could provide him with the structure, culture, and teammates he needs to regain his form.
The question, of course, is what the Celtics would have to give up in order to bring Simmons aboard. His trade value has dropped significantly since his peak, meaning that Boston would not have to sacrifice a key piece of their championship core. However, acquiring Simmons would still require a calculated risk, as the Celtics would need to integrate him into a team that already has established stars and a clearly defined hierarchy. Would Simmons be willing to accept a smaller role, perhaps coming off the bench or serving primarily as a defensive anchor? Would his presence disrupt the team’s spacing and offensive flow? These are the questions that Brad Stevens and the Celtics’ decision-makers would need to consider before pulling the trigger on such a move.
What makes the Simmons rumors even more intriguing is the fact that Boston has shown a willingness in recent years to make unconventional roster moves if they believe it will give them an edge. The acquisition of Kristaps Porziņģis last offseason was a perfect example of a high-risk, high-reward move that has paid dividends so far. Porziņģis’ ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim has added a new dimension to Boston’s offense and defense, complementing Tatum and Brown in ways that other big men could not. Adding Simmons, though a different type of risk, would be another swing for the fences—betting on a talented but inconsistent player to find his groove in the right environment.
The Celtics’ front office has been very strategic about maintaining flexibility while keeping their championship window open. Waiving an NBA champion is part of that strategy, as it allows the team to potentially add a younger, more athletic player who can provide energy and depth during the grueling regular season and playoffs. In addition, they have been active in monitoring the trade market, which means that Simmons is just one of several names that could be on their radar. Boston has built its current success on smart drafting, player development, and a strong locker room culture, and any move they make will have to align with those core principles.
The broader NBA landscape also plays a role in Boston’s decisions. The Eastern Conference is more competitive than ever, with teams like the Bucks adding Damian Lillard, the Miami Heat remaining perennial contenders, and the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers both looking to take the next step. Boston knows that standing still is not an option if they want to secure a championship. Every roster tweak matters, and the front office’s proactive approach is part of what has kept them near the top of the league for several years now.
Fans are already speculating on social media about what a lineup with Simmons would look like. Could the Celtics experiment with Simmons as a small-ball center, given his size and defensive prowess? Could he serve as a point-forward, taking some of the playmaking burden off of Tatum and Brown? While there are no easy answers, it’s clear that the Celtics have the coaching staff and system in place to maximize a player’s strengths while minimizing their weaknesses. Joe Mazzulla has shown flexibility in his schemes, and Simmons’ defensive switchability could fit perfectly with Boston’s identity as a team that can guard multiple positions effectively.
The story of the ex-Celtic signing in Israel is another reminder of how interconnected the basketball world has become. For many players, going overseas is not a step backward but a chance to reinvent themselves, enjoy a starring role, and compete in front of passionate fans. Some players even return to the NBA stronger and more polished after successful stints abroad. Boston fans often follow these stories closely, as they provide a glimpse into the careers of former players who once wore the green and white with pride.
In the end, the Celtics’ recent moves and rumored interest in Simmons show that the team is not content to simply rest on its laurels. With championship aspirations burning brighter than ever, Boston is willing to make tough decisions and explore unconventional options. Waiving an NBA champion might be a difficult pill to swallow for some fans, but it’s part of a larger vision to keep the team competitive for years to come. The signing of a former player overseas adds another layer of intrigue, while the Simmons rumors keep everyone guessing about what could happen next.
As the offseason progresses, it’s clear that the Celtics are focused on building a team that can not only compete for a championship but also sustain success in the long term. Whether Simmons ends up in Boston or not, the mere possibility reflects the organization’s aggressive approach to roster building. Fans can expect more news, more rumors, and possibly more surprises as the Celtics continue their quest for greatness. For now, all eyes are on Brad Stevens and the front office as they navigate an offseason filled with both challenges and opportunities, all with the ultimate goal of raising another banner in the rafters of TD Garden.
