The NBA offseason is always full of twists and turns, but this summer, the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks have taken center stage with a series of headline-grabbing roster decisions. Both teams, at different points, were rumored to be pursuing Ben Simmons, the three-time All-Star whose future in the league remains a hot topic. But as August 2025 draws to a close, the landscape has shifted, with new signings, emerging prospects, and shifting priorities shaping the East’s powerhouses.
Let’s start in Boston, where the Celtics made a notable move by signing Chris Boucher on August 17, 2025. The former Toronto Raptor is expected to play a significant role in the Celtics’ frontcourt next season, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. This acquisition not only bolsters Boston’s depth but also complicates the team’s remaining roster decisions. With one open regular-season spot still available, speculation swirled about whether the Celtics would use it to bring Simmons into the fold. However, Brian Robb of MassLive reported that the franchise is leaning toward keeping that vacancy open to maximize tax savings. While a Simmons signing isn’t entirely off the table, it appears less likely now that Boucher is set to take on meaningful minutes in green.
Meanwhile, the New York Knicks have been navigating their own roster puzzles. The Knicks, like Boston, have one roster spot left and were previously linked to Simmons. Yet, recent reports suggest their focus has shifted to re-signing Landry Shamet, a familiar and reliable presence in the backcourt. Ian Begley of SNY shared on The Putback, “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.” Shamet’s value to New York isn’t just theoretical—he appeared in 50 games last season, averaging 5.7 points and knocking down 39.7% of his 3.1 three-point attempts per game in 15.2 minutes. His performance during the Eastern Conference Finals, when head coach Tom Thibodeau expanded the rotation after a 2-0 deficit to the Indiana Pacers, showcased his energy, defensive grit, and reliable shooting. Even though Thibodeau has since departed, Shamet’s contributions in high-pressure moments have kept him front of mind for the Knicks’ decision-makers.
But New York isn’t alone in its interest. The Minnesota Timberwolves have also registered their intent to pursue Shamet, according to Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic. Yet, there’s a twist: Bones Hyland is reportedly the front-runner for Minnesota’s final roster slot, as Krawczynski notes, “All indications are that Bones Hyland is the front-runner to get that final spot, league sources said.” This development could clear the way for Shamet to return to New York, provided the Knicks act swiftly to secure his signature. If Shamet is indeed re-signed and Boston holds onto its open spot, Ben Simmons’ search for a new NBA team could drag on into September, leaving the former All-Star in limbo as training camps approach.
While the Knicks weigh their options with Shamet and Simmons, they are also making moves to inject youth and international flair into their roster. According to James L. Edwards III of The Athletic, New York is expected to sign Mohamed Diawara, the No. 51 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, to a two-way contract. Diawara, a 6-foot-8 forward, recently parted ways with Cholet Basket in France, paving the way for his NBA debut. In the 2025 Summer League, Diawara averaged 7.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 22.3 minutes per contest. His defensive presence and rebounding prowess turned heads, even as his perimeter shooting remained a work in progress.
Diawara’s journey to the NBA has been marked by steady growth and international accolades. He averaged 5.8 points and 3.1 rebounds across 27 appearances for Cholet in the French League, with his production spiking to 10.5 points per game during the playoffs as his role expanded. Before his stint at Cholet, Diawara gained professional experience with Paris Basketball and Poitiers Basket 86. He also made waves on the international stage, earning MVP honors at the Basketball Without Borders Europe camp in 2022. Perhaps most impressively, Diawara helped lead France’s U20 squad to a EuroBasket gold medal in 2024, further solidifying his reputation as a high-motor, defensive-minded forward.
The Knicks’ flexibility with their two-way slots has allowed them to consider Diawara since the end of Summer League. If finalized, this deal will enable the 20-year-old to split his time between New York’s main roster and their G League affiliate, the Westchester Knicks. This approach not only gives the Knicks a chance to develop a promising prospect but also maintains roster fluidity as the team eyes a return to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.
For Celtics fans, the signing of Chris Boucher signals a commitment to shoring up the frontcourt and adding a versatile defender and shot-blocker to the mix. Boucher’s ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim could prove invaluable alongside Boston’s established stars. Yet, the decision to keep the final roster spot open has sparked debate among fans and analysts. Is Boston’s front office playing it safe with the luxury tax, or do they have another move up their sleeve as the season nears? With Simmons still available and the market for his services narrowing, the Celtics’ patience could pay off—or leave them searching for answers if injuries or depth issues arise.
On the Knicks’ side, the balancing act between veteran stability and youthful upside is on full display. Should they prioritize bringing back Shamet, whose playoff experience and three-point shooting are proven assets? Or do they roll the dice on Simmons, hoping that a change of scenery revives his career and adds a new dimension to their lineup? And how will Diawara’s development factor into the team’s long-term plans? These are the questions swirling around Madison Square Garden as the offseason drama unfolds.
One thing’s for sure: the Eastern Conference is as competitive as ever, and every roster decision carries weight. As the Celtics and Knicks finalize their squads, the fate of Ben Simmons remains one of the league’s most intriguing storylines. Will he land in Boston, New York, or elsewhere? Or will his next chapter be delayed even further as teams weigh their options and keep a close eye on the luxury tax?
For now, both franchises seem content to let the market play out, with Boston banking on Boucher’s impact and New York betting on a mix of familiar faces and emerging talent like Diawara. The offseason chess match continues, and fans can only watch and wonder what surprises the next few weeks will bring as the NBA gears up for another unforgettable season.
