The Boston Celtics are still trying to put the pieces together for next season, but there is one piece they might need to avoid at all costs.

Over the past few months, the Celtics’ outlook has changed drastically. After entering the postseason among the favorites to win the East and the NBA title, a second-round exit and torn Achilles for Jayson Tatum have suddenly put Boston in a much different position.

While breaking up the championship core was always on the table this offseason, given Boston’s financial restrictions, the teardown likely went a step further with the Celtics no longer looking at championship contention in 2026.

Still, the Celtics are looking to stay in the playoff hunt again next season, but that doesn’t mean Brad Stevens should take a risk on just anybody in free agency. As MassLive’s Matt Vautour suggested, the Celtics shouldn’t consider bringing in Ben Simmons whatsoever.

Simmons, a three-time All-Star with the Philadelphia 76ers, has dealt with numerous injury concerns throughout the past few seasons. After being a solid role player for the LA Clippers last season, Simmons is still looking for his next home.

Considering all of those injury concerns and Boston’s injury issues entering next season already, Simmons might not be a great fit. Along with that, Vautour also noted that recently acquired Georges Niang’s beef with Simmons should also stop Boston from considering Simmons.

There are plenty of interesting names remaining on the free agent market for the Celtics to target, but Simmons probably shouldn’t be on that list.