The Boston Celtics have retooled their roster this offseason in an effort to avoid looming financial constraints.
Following Jayson Tatum's torn Achilles in Boston's second-round playoff exit to the New York Knicks, Boston is facing a gap year. To avoid second-apron penalties, the team traded Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis in cost-cutting moves. The Celtics also lost Luke Kornet to the San Antonio Spurs in free agency, and Al Horford is not expected to return.
After shedding salary this offseason, the Celtics’ frontcourt has been left thin. Their center group currently features Neemias Queta, Chris Boucher and Luka Garza, none of whom have extensive starting experience.
Neemias Queta could be poised for a breakout season
With the Celtics’ lackluster center group, Queta could step into an expanded role. Moreover, the Celtics are reportedly eager to see his development, according to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.
“The idea of the Celtics trading for frontcourt depth before the season is unlikely, as the organization is excited to see the growth of Neemias Queta,” he wrote.
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The former second-round pick averaged just 5.0 points and 3.8 rebounds across 13.9 minutes per game last season, though he shot 65.0 percent from the field while appearing in a career-high 62 regular-season games.
Garza never appeared in more than 40 regular-season games over four years with Minnesota, though Boucher could compete for the starting job with Queta.
Regardless of who starts, Queta could have a golden opportunity to prove his worth on a Celtics team that is not expected to contend for a title.
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