‘Easy to see’ why Boston Celtics big man signing was a fan-favorite

It’s “easy to see” why recent Boston Celtics two-way free agent signing Neemias Queta was a fan-favorite while with the Sacramento Kings during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons according to NBC Sports Boston’s Chris Forsberg — who believes the Utah State product could earn trust with the coaching staff ahead of the 2023-24 regular season.

“While the Celtics have durability questions at the center spot given the injury histories of Williams III and newly added Kristaps Porzingis, along with the advanced age of Al Horford, the team is positioned this year to balance the workload of their big men,” Forsberg prefaced before saying, “Still, Queta should get plenty of reps in training camp, which could allow him to start earning the trust of the coaching staff.

“Ultimately, Boston is adding a young 7-footer who has only scratched the surface of his potential. Watch any highlight mix and you’ll find him sprinting the floor, blocking shots, and finishing with both hands around the basket. It’s easy to see how he was a fan favorite in Sacramento.”

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Queta is the kind of low-risk, high-upside reward that can pay dividends for the Boston Celtics during the 2023-24 regular season; particularly if the persistent injury issues Kristaps Porzingis and Robert Williams III have contended with in their career continue to wreak havoc on the C’s bigs.

While his game isn’t particularly developed, Queta does the bare essentials a big man needs to. In a Celtics lineup with so many playmakers already, there’s no need for anything more than an efficient finisher. Queta certainly qualifies as such.

With the center rotation now settled, the point guard spot is one of the final roster spots that needs to be addressed; assuming Oshae Brissett can be the answer on the wing for the second unit. A veteran pass-first option would be worth the pursuit for President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens and Co.

• Published on 09/18/2023 at 6:00 AM EDT
• Last updated on 09/18/2023 at 6:00 AM EDT