On Monday, October 9, 2023, in New York, Neemias Queta (88) of the Boston Celtics shoots over Mitchell Robinson (23) of the New York Knicks during the first half of an NBA preseason game. (AFP image by Frank Franklin)
Boston — Neemias Queta was signed by the Celtics to a two-way contract prior to the season, primarily as insurance for the lengthy regular season. And so far, Queta has excelled, displaying moments of brilliance when given the chance and minutes.
What the C’s will do with Queta and his situation before the playoffs remains to be seen. Currently on a two-way deal, he is not eligible to suit up beyond the regular season. However, there is a chance for a promotion because the C’s have an available roster space following the trade deadline. But according to Boston President Brad Stevens, everything is still up in the air at this time.
For the final roster position we have available, we must keep assessing everything, Stevens stated. “But Neemie did a fantastic job.”
There was greater urgency to make sure Queta would be available for the playoffs for insurance concerns before getting Xavier Tillman from the Grizzlies. Throughout the regular season, the team has been conservative with Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis, freeing up playing time for the backup big men.
Queta has played minutes as a result of Luke Kornet’s sporadic injuries. Now that Tillman is a member of the team, the big man discussion also takes into account his availability and defensive versatility. However, the Celtics are undoubtedly much stronger now that the deadline has passed in terms of center depth.
Queta has played in 22 games for the C’s this season, averaging 4.8 points and 4.5 rebounds. His hustle and enthusiasm have won him acclaim. Although he still has room for improvement, coach Joe Mazzulla reminded us last month that he is still a young player with just 42 NBA games under his belt. As a result, some growing pains are anticipated as the 24-year-old refines his technique.
When it comes to the 15th roster spot—a luxury the Celtics have after the trade deadline—Stevens stated they will exercise patience. They added Tillman and Jaden Springer to strengthen the fringes of their roster. In order to send Dalano Banton to the Trail Blazers as part of a third agreement, the C’s also made.
Regarding the 15th man, Stevens stated, “I think the first thing we need to see is if there’s somebody that can again provide great depth for our group.” “However, I don’t see someone who immediately becomes a regular in our rotation.”
Thus, it would seem that the Celtics won’t be making a quick decision to add someone to that roster space just yet. Though those choices are still up in the air so soon after the trade deadline, they could be able to sign the proper buyout market guy. Because of their salary cap position, the C’s are also restricted in who they can sign on the buyout market (more on that here).
The Celtics are free to take their time with the last position, of course. They were in a similar situation following the deadline the previous season. To acquire a better look at the guard, they decided to risk acquiring Justin Champagnie rather than signing a veteran. Even though it didn’t work out, the Celtics still have that as a backup plan. In any case, with the Celtics owning the best record in the NBA, the game is comparatively low-stakes.
