‘It’s easy to see’ why the Boston Celtics big man’s 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 he was with the Sacramento Kings during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons, according to Chris Forsberg of NBC Sports Boston, who believes the Utah State product could earn the trust of the coaching staff heading into the 2023-24 regular season.

“While the Celtics have questions about durability at the center spot given the injury history of Williams III and newcomer 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 7-footer who has barely scratched the surface of his potential. Watch any combination of highlights and you’ll find him running the court, blocking shots and finishing with both hands around the basket. It’s easy to see that he was a fan favorite in Sacramento.”

The Boston Celtics addressed a roster issue profitably

Queta is the kind of low-risk, high-reward reward that can pay dividends for the Boston Celtics during the 2023-24 regular season; particularly if the nagging injury issues that Kristaps Porzingis and Robert Williams III have had to deal with throughout their careers continue to wreak havoc on the C’s big men.

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

With the central rotation already resolved, the point guard position is one of the last positions on the roster that needs to be addressed; assuming Oshae Brissett can be the answer on the second unit wing. A veteran passing option for president of basketball operations Brad Stevens and Co. would be worth pursuing.

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