Making a case for each backup center option on the Boston Celtics' roster

Neemias Queta

The youngest of three candidates for the backup five spot, Queta at 25 years old has a big chance to claim the spot. 2023-24 saw the Portuguese big man averaged 5.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, and a block per game on 64% shooting, and 71% from the foul line in 11 minutes per game across 28 matchups.

He holds the most potential of the three options and the club seems the most committed to the prospect after signing a multi-year deal to stay in Boston.

The major con is the lack of experience of being an NBA rotation player. Queta is a good rebounder, a solid lob threat, a capable rim protector, and a freak athlete. Through two games of the Las Vegas Summer League, he averaged 21 points, 8.5 rebounds, and two blocks on 64% shooting from the field and 83% from the foul line.

The former second-round pick is the most similar to the type of athlete Porzingis is in terms of playing style. The universal fan-favorite should see the most minutes he's seen in his young NBA career in the 2024-25 season.

Time will tell if he can carve out a role and some staying power in the main club.