Day 1 of the Celtics' training camp provided a chance to check in with Luka Garza. Naturally, Boston's signing of Mitchell Robinson was among the topics discussed.
"I love his game. He's one of those guys that you hate going against," said Garza. "It's good to have him on this side."
That's an admirable perspective. To some extent, it was probably difficult to see his team ink a player at his position to a nearly $50 million deal. The Celtics also aren't built to deploy a lot of double-big lineups. Instead, they'll rely far more heavily on their wings.
For Garza, that makes minutes harder to come by. It's a harsh reality after a season of validation. The former National Player of the Year at Iowa came to Boston to prove himself on the NBA stage. He did just that, adding fuel to a fire that was already burning bright. Fortunately, no one has to worry about those flames flickering out in the face of adversity. The passion and drive that have propelled his career are needed more than ever.
Luka Garza remains a valuable part of the Celtics
The 27-year-old from Washington, D.C., averaged 8.1 points and 4.1 rebounds last season. He hoisted 1.8 threes per contest and knocked down 43.3 percent. That's a career-best.
When Joe Mazzulla calls his number, Garza delivers dependable production. He generates second-chance opportunities. He also sets excellent screens and has great timing, whether rolling, popping, or slipping. He's a trusted threat from beyond the arc, and the six-foot-10 center plays with relentless energy and determination every second he's on the floor.
After the Game 7 loss against the Philadelphia 76ers, he took a moment to himself in the locker room. He wanted to reflect, to appreciate that he accomplished what he came to Boston for. He finally got the chance to prove that he belongs. He responded by elevating his career trajectory.
The Celtics aren't about to play 82 games relying only on Queta and Robinson at center. The circumstances are more challenging than last season, but he still owes it to himself to be ready. He has a chance to build on a career year. The entire league will take notice of what he does with it.
How Luka Garza prepared for the 2026-27 NBA season
As he trains for his sixth year in the Association, the former Hawkeye was among the first to capitalize on the National Basketball Players Association's [NBPA] newest resource.
The NBPA recently opened the first player-owned, 24/7 performance center in Los Angeles. The facility is part of their new PLYRS UNTD brand. There, he got to sharpen his craft while competing with and against players like Jaren Jackson Jr., Trae Young, and Chet Holmgren.
He also finally got the chance to represent Bosnia and Herzegovina. Garza shined at FIBA this summer. He said that it helped keep him fresh and "kept his mind in the right place." It also allowed him to work on many facets of his game.
It's a springboard that can help Garza star in his role for the Celtics and showcase what he's capable of.
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