Boston’s Neemias Queta Sidelined; Raptors Ride Ingram’s Hot Hand, George Misses Time, Sixers Confront Depth Questions
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Boston, MA — The Celtics will be without starting center Neemias Queta for the first time this season when they visit the Eastern Conference–leading Pistons on Wednesday. Head coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed the absence after Queta sprained his left ankle during Sunday’s victory over Orlando and subsequently missed Tuesday’s practice.
The 25-year-old big man is posting career highs of 9.3 points and 7.9 rebounds while anchoring a defense that surrenders 25.7 fewer points per 100 possessions when he is on the court. With Queta unavailable, Boston will turn to Xavier Tillman, Chris Boucher and Luka Garza at the five. Queta’s three-year, $7.2 million contract carries only a partial guarantee for 2026–27.
Ingram Powers Raptors to Eighth Straight Win
Brandon Ingram fired up 30 shots and finished with 37 points in Monday’s 118-107 home win over Cleveland, extending Toronto’s winning streak to eight games. “He’s a player—when he gets going, we recognize that,” head coach Darko Rajaković said. “We’ve got to stay within our principles, keep the ball moving, and find him through that style of play.”
George Sits with Ankle Soreness
Paul George was held out of Tuesday’s matchup against Orlando after experiencing ankle soreness earlier in the day, according to head coach Nick Nurse. George had been listed as probable but was ruled out shortly before tip-off. Nurse said he does not yet know whether the veteran forward will miss additional contests; George has appeared in only three games this month.
Sixers’ Injury List Stretches Thin
In a related discussion, The Athletic’s Tony Jones questioned whether Philadelphia has enough healthy bodies to remain competitive amid its mounting injuries. “We have to plug in who we can plug in,” Nurse said. “Some decisions work, some don’t. If they don’t, we change them. We’re just trying to do what’s best for the group.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
