The Boston Celtics have a well-documented need for improved consistency at the center position. Having lost Al Horford, Luke Kornet, and Kristaps Porzingis in a single summer, it was an inevitable outcome, particularly after a relatively dormant offseason on the acquisition front.
Against all odds, low-profile bigs Luka Garza and Neemias Queta have stepped up to fill the void as the Celtics weigh their trade options—but who should continue to get minutes if a move is made?
Garza and Queta offer vastly different strengths, weaknesses, and all-around skill sets. That will play a decisive role in who fits where once the dust has settled, as a potential acquisition's profile will likely dictate what the second unit needs when they're off the court.
The harsh reality remains, however, that one of the most essential players from the Celtics' unexpected 21-12 start would likely find themselves riding the pine if a trade goes through.
It's within the realm of possibility that Boston will opt against trading for a new big and instead stick with Garza and Queta. It's just as likely that head coach Joe Mazzulla will work his magic in an attempt to find an ideal spot for Garza, Queta, and whichever center the team potentially acquires.
The harsh reality facing Mazzulla and the Celtics, however, is that trading for an upgrade will mean pressing pause on a feel-good story.
If Celtics trade for a 5, Luka Garza or Neemias Queta may lose their spot
Garza, 27, has been an offensive revelation off the bench for the Celtics. He's averaging a rather pedestrian 7.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.6 offensive boards, 1.0 assist, and 0.6 three-point field goals made, but he's doing so in just 15.6 minutes per game.
Garza's numbers translate to 16.9 points, 9.5 rebounds, 5.8 offensive boards, 2.3 assists, 1.0 block, 0.9 steals, and 1.5 three-point field goals made per 36 minutes—on .606/.471/.771 shooting.
Queta, meanwhile, has operated as the Celtics' resident interior defensive anchor. He's averaging 10.1 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.9 offensive boards, 1.5 assists, 1.3 blocks, and 0.8 steals in 24.6 minutes per game. That translates to 14.8 points, 11.1 rebounds, 4.2 offensive boards, 2.2 assists, 1.9 blocks, and 1.2 steals per 36 minutes.
While Garza offers incredible value as a floor-spacer and all-around offensive threat, Queta is a rim-running big who can protect the paint and play above the rim.
The edge seems to go to Queta, whose defensive value simply can't be overstated. He currently ranks in the 95th percentile in rim deterrence, the 93rd percentile in rim protection, and the 87th percentile in rim disruption, as well as the 99th percentile in screener mobile defense and the 97th percentile in screener rim defense, per Basketball Index.
Whether he's stationed in the paint or defending the pick and roll, Queta's value is monumental considering the glaring absence of interior anchors on the roster.
In saying that, the Celtics could potentially acquire a big with a similar skill set and thus prioritize Garza's offensive capabilities. In addition to his ability to space the floor, Garza offers significant value as a playmaker, whether he's creating the final shot or simply facilitating the flow of the offense.
Regardless of who it is that ultimately takes the back seat, the harsh reality is that a trade for an upgrade at center would mean effectively benching an essential contributor in the midst of their step forward.