The Boston Celtics will face a shortage of frontcourt players for the first time this season as they added a late entry to their injury report ahead of Monday’s game against the Wizards. Neemias Queta, a two-way center, was declared unavailable on Monday morning due to a foot injury. It’s worth noting that Boston had a clean injury report for their initial two games of the season.
Although Queta has yet to make an appearance for the Celtics in the regular season, he showcased his potential during the preseason as a pleasant surprise. He posted impressive averages of 9.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game in three preseason outings, shooting an exceptional 86.7 percent from the field.
This performance positions him as a viable option to come off the bench on nights when Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis are unavailable in the future. His progress during training camp left a positive impression on coach Joe Mazzulla.
Mazzulla commented, “He’s gotten better and better every day since he’s been with us. Just his ability to grasp our defensive strategies, especially for a player of his type, is the most critical aspect. I believe he’s made significant improvements in understanding what we expect from him defensively.”
When Neemias Queta is in good health, he could contend for playing time as a more traditional center off the bench, possibly competing with Luke Kornet. On occasions when Boston opts for a smaller lineup without their top six big men, they may go with a more athletic forward like Oshae Brissett. Nevertheless, Queta could provide the team with a valuable rim-running threat in such situations.
Mazzulla also highlighted Queta’s offensive skills, including his ability to think, pass, set screens, and navigate the court. He praised the player’s development since joining the team.
Queta’s next opportunity to take the court will be on Wednesday night when the Celtics host the Pacers at TD Garden.
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