The Boston Celtics have captured the attention of the basketball world following a remarkable 64-win regular season, culminating in a 16-3 triumph through the playoffs to clinch the championship. Powered by an exceptional array of sharpshooters, the Celtics have cemented themselves as a formidable force on the hardwood.
Last season, Boston’s offensive prowess was built around their deadly accuracy from beyond the arc. They managed to notch up more 3-pointers than any other team, save for two, throughout the history of the NBA. Despite being a long-range juggernaut, the Celtics only ranked 21st all-time in 3-point shooting percentage, highlighting the sheer volume rather than efficiency as the key to their dominance.
However, their perimeter precision came at a cost. Boston found themselves ranked 27th in points in the paint, an area traditionally dominated by physical play and inside scoring. This imbalance was highlighted in their recent 118-112 loss to the Golden State Warriors, underscoring a need for versatility in their offensive game plan.
Amidst these dynamics, the ascent of Neemias Queta has added a new dimension to the Celtics' game. Taken in the second round of the draft, Queta arrived in Boston on a two-way contract, quickly proving himself to be a pivotal contributor. Over the Celtics' first seven games, Queta managed eight dunks in just 97 minutes on the court, ranking him No. 33 in the league for dunks — quite the feat for someone playing under 100 minutes. This penchant for dunks was on full display against Golden State, where he hammered home four more in a 28-minute display.
Queta's performance against the Warriors was a testament to his burgeoning potential. The young center not only put up 14 points but also pulled down eight rebounds, achieving a team-best plus-13 point-differential. These statistics underscore his impact on both ends of the court. Indeed, Queta has been a revelation in his role, boasting a net rating of plus-22.7 this season over 125 minutes of play.
The performance differential between Queta and other players adds further intrigue. Comparisons to teammate Luke Kornet indicate Queta’s superior dunk rate this season, an impressive development considering Kornet’s stature as an established player. The decision to start Queta against the Warriors further highlights the Celtics’ faith in his abilities and potential for growth.
Financially, the Celtics have made a significant commitment to Queta, investing $2.2 million in his development. This investment is indicative of their confidence in his capabilities and the belief that he can become an integral part of their system. His ascension is reflective of a tactical shift in the Celtics’ strategy — incorporating more dynamic play inside the paint to complement their dominant perimeter shooting.
As the season progresses, Boston’s capacity to blend different styles of play will be crucial. While their long-range proficiency offers them an edge, integrating players like Queta into their game plan could be pivotal in maintaining their championship-winning form. The Celtics' adaptation will determine how they navigate the remainder of the season and beyond, as the quest for sustained success in the NBA continues.