CelticsBlog exit interview: Celtics center Neemias Queta

How would you characterize Neemias Queta’s 2024–2025 Celtics season? Well, there are both positive and negative aspects to discuss. The former Utah State University big man had a mixed bag of a season and we are here to dive into it..

Overall, I would say Queta had a decent showing; he displayed signs of progression but left a fair bit unanswered, which will have some fans questioning the long-term fit.

Firstly, his bright spots were often very bright for Boston. Queta overall gets a passing grade for his hustle plays and energy on the floor. The 25-year-old Queta is developing this uncanny skill at chasing down blocks and providing thunderous dunks, which serve as some of the most memorable plays of the year.

In contrast to his 24-game performance from the previous season, Queta has demonstrated to Celtics supporters his offensive rebounding prowess and ability to create second-chance opportunities for the team, which has also translated into an incredible feel for tip-ins and follow-up dunks.

Queta presents a big, strong body for Coach Mazzulla; he has also played well against some tough Western Conference opponents for Boston. His best game of the season was in a 12-point, 9-rebound, 4-block, and 3-assist home win over the LA Clippers. Queta also had a stellar showing on November 6th against the Warriors, dropping 14 points, blocking 2 shots, and nabbing 8 rebounds.

For all the good though, came some more turbulent showings in his 69 game appearances. Queta found himself benched at times throughout the season due to his poor decision-making in games, which often followed two or three standout performances. The Queta experience included bad defensive positioning, overhelping in some situations, missing rotations, making successive stupid fouls, and the poorly timed turnovers.

Queta needs to work on passing out of the low block, limit his moving screens and learn not to be so eager on opposing teams head fakes. Most fans think Queta defensive decision making, over zealous propensity to rack up quick fouls.

Joe Mazzulla can throw the larger framed Queta at opposing stronger big man, like an Embiid or Edey. Neemias has also shown nice footwork to chase down players from behind if he gets caught flat-footed. He is a cheap, serviceable insurance piece for Boston who can start the occasional game when the team is in injury trouble.

Queta’s role on the team might very well be broadened next season, especially if we see Luke Kornet depart in the summer and Al Horford retire. Queta will likely stick in Boston next season as a bench body, most likely alongside a rookie center, as Boston’s frontcourt should look fairly different next season. His post game is developing and he should prioritise working on both his footwork and refining that hook shot.

Queta is always a lob threat whenever he is on the court especially with the likes of Tatum, Brown and White on the court. Think, Rob Williams lite sans the passing ability. Boston will look for Queta to take another leap forward in his development next season, hopefully he is ready to go and takes the time in Summer to hone his game.