Kristaps Porzingis Sees Neemias Queta Ready for Bigger Celtics Minutes but Unsure About Starting Spot
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During a EuroBasket group game this week, former Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis said Neemias Queta has earned a larger role in Boston’s rotation, though he stopped short of predicting a starting assignment.
Porzingis led Latvia to a 78–62 win over Queta’s Portugal, finishing with 21 points, nine rebounds, three assists and one block. The 26-year-old Queta countered with 16 points, seven boards, two steals and a block.
Porzingis Praises Queta’s Progress
“Nimi has been getting better each year,” Porzingis said after the game. “Coach Joe Mazzulla has been pretty tough on him, and I believe he deserves some real rotation minutes.” Porzingis added that Queta’s work ethic and recent play warrant expanded opportunities this season.
Starting Role Still in Question
Asked whether Queta should open the season in the first unit following the offseason departures of Al Horford, Luke Kornet and Porzingis, the 2018 All-Star hesitated. “Starter? Good question,” he replied. “Who else is there? I don’t know. I haven’t thought about their roster, honestly, too deep.”
Queta’s 2024-25 Outlook
Queta appeared in a career-high 62 games last season, averaging 5.0 points, 3.8 rebounds and 13.9 minutes while shooting 65 percent from the floor and 75.4 percent at the line. Team president Brad Stevens said earlier this summer that the 7-footer is “much better” than the fourth-string role he filled for most of 2023-24 and “has a great chance to be impactful” this year.
The Portuguese big man is expected to compete with newcomers Chris Boucher and Luka Garza, returning reserve Xavier Tillman and second-round pick Amari Williams for frontcourt minutes.
Porzingis Begins New Chapter in Atlanta
Porzingis, who missed 65 regular-season games over two years in Boston because of injuries and illness, has joined the Atlanta Hawks. The Celtics and Hawks meet Jan. 17 in Atlanta, and Porzingis is slated to return to TD Garden on Jan. 28.
Source: Basketball Insiders
