During their preseason schedule, Neemias Queta was among the Boston Celtics’ standout performers. The 24-year-old big man provided energy, size, rebounding and playmaking off the bench and quickly became a fan favorite. Queta also out-performed Luke Kornet, who is currently the Celtics third big in the rotation.
Nevertheless, Queta projects to remain on his two-way contract for the upcoming season. According to Brian Robb of Masslive, the Celtics are expected to resist the urge to convert Queta’s contract. Brad Stevens is expected to favor roster flexibility with the 15th and final roster spot heading into the new season.
“A league source told MassLive that Queta is expected to remain on a two-way deal to at least begin the year,” Robb reported. “Queta will have several games of eligibility on a two-way deal with Boston and the team will also retain some flexibility to convert his contract to a standard contract if they choose to later in the year. As it currently stands, the team will maintain more roster and cap flexibility in that 15th roster spot by waiting on a move.”
Queta participated in three preseason games for the Celtics. He averaged 9.7 points and 4.7 rebounds, shooting 86.7% from the field. He also flashed some upside as a high-post playmaker, as Boston ran multiple hand-off actions with Queta on the elbows.
New: The #Celtics will need to finalize their opening night roster within hours. What I'm hearing about what that group will look like at the end of the bench, potential promotions (Queta?) and what it all means going forward: https://t.co/czIgujKhsT
— Brian Robb (@BrianTRobb) October 23, 2023
Nevertheless, the 7-foot big man will be expected to continue developing in the G-League. Queta will have opportunities to impress throughout the season. If he continues to perform at a high level when given the opportunity, Queta could crack the main rotation later in the season or next summer, when Boston could extend him a full NBA contract.
