Neemias

Queta

Removed from the starting lineup for Game 7, Queta had his most productive game of the series on Saturday. The Celtics’ center’s 17 points were a playoff career high, and he hit double digits in rebounds for the third consecutive game. Thrust into a more prominent role this season following the departures of Kristaps Porziņǵis, Al Horford and Luke Kornet, Queta rewarded fantasy managers with a top-100 regular season. He has a team option for next season worth just under $2.7 million, so it feels as if the chances of Queta remaining in Boston are high. However, the inconsistent offensive production may prompt the Celtics also to look to upgrade at center via free agency or the trade market.

Queta has had an awesome season, but he hasn’t done much in this series. However, he reached double-digit rebounds for the first time in the series, though it wasn’t enough for the Celtics to close it out. Queta will continue to start and play a significant role, but his impact will likely continue to be limited.

The Celtics have already ruled out four of their five starters for Sunday’s regular-season finale, as the outcome will not impact their playoff seeding. White’s absence should free up additional minutes for Ron Harper Jr. and Max Shulga. As for Queta, there will be more playing time available for Luka Garza, and Amari Williams could get rotation minutes as well.

Queta was initially listed as probable for this game, and now he has officially been cleared to suit up. He’ll occupy his typical spot in the starting unit for Boston as they look to lock up the second seed in the East.

Queta is good to go after initially being questionable for Thursday’s game. He’ll take on his usual role as the Celtics’ starting center, with Nikola Vučević serving as his backup.

Hauser is dealing with lower back spasms, and Queta has a sprained right great toe. The latter’s absence would free up rotation minutes for Luka Garza and Nikola Vučević, and Vooch could use a few more minutes as he shakes off the rust following an extended absence due to a fractured hand. Hauser sitting out opens up playing time for Ron Harper Jr.

Queta came through with another quality effort on Sunday, shooting 90 percent from the field. The four assists were the most in a game for him since March 27, when the Celtics center recorded five in a win over the Hawks. Add in the rebounds and blocks, and this was a good finish to Week 23 for Queta and those rostering the 7-footer. For those whose leagues will be active in Week 24, the Celtics play four games.

After totaling two double-doubles in his first four NBA seasons, Queta recorded his 16th of the 2025-26 campaign on Friday. While there are more prolific options for Most Improved Player honors, the strides that the Celtics’ center has made should not be overlooked. In addition to 19 points and 10 rebounds, Queta recorded four blocks in Friday’s rout of the Bucks. He’ll look to end Week 23 on a high note when the Celtics host the Raptors on Sunday.

Back in the lineup after sitting out Monday’s win over the Hawks, Queta finished Wednesday’s victory with his 15th double-double of the season. Add in the assists and blocks, and this was a good night for those rostering the Celtics’ starting center. Luka Garza, who started on Monday, played 15 minutes in Miami, finishing with 12 points, two rebounds, one block and two three-pointers. Boston does not have another back-to-back in Week 23, so the roles of Queta and Garza should remain the same.

After being shorthanded for their back-to-back on Sunday and Monday, the Celtics will have their preferred first five on the floor in Miami. Hauser, Tatum and Queta are good to go, which pushes Baylor Scheierman, Jordan Walsh and Luka Garza to the bench.