Neemias Queta finding footing, but with one key flaw in his game this season

Neemias Queta has by all accounts exceeded expectations since taking over the beginning heart function for the Celtics this season.

The 26 12 months previous is averaging 10.1 factors and eight.3 rebounds per sport this season — each are nearly double his profession common (5.7 factors and 4.4 rebounds). Queta’s dependable presence across the rim stays essential for the Celtics, who misplaced three facilities within the offseason.

Talking to the media on Saturday, Queta took time to mirror on what the primary seven weeks of the season have been like for him.

“I’m at all times appreciative of this chance. It’s not any franchise; it’s the Boston Celtics,” Queta mentioned. “I strive to not [think about that], as a result of I acquired to go on the market on daily basis … the perfect factor I do is play basketball on the finish of the day.

“It’s an important privilege, however nonetheless I acquired to go on the market and play basketball and ship on the court docket.”

Whereas Queta’s rise as a participant has been filled with positives, his sport has proven one clear weak spot: free throw capturing. He’s solely hitting 61.2 p.c of his free throw makes an attempt on the 12 months. It’s one of many worst marks of any starter within the NBA, and one thing Queta want to enhance on because the 12 months goes on.

Boston is a much less bodily workforce typically, with Queta being one of some exceptions to that. Capturing nicely from the charity stripe could be a bonus and add one other layer to Queta’s rising function for the Celtics.

Boston misplaced to the Bucks on Thursday due largely to the bodily benefit they’d over the Celtics. Queta had 9 factors and 10 rebounds within the loss.

“We might get higher at studying the best way to play groups like that,” Queta mentioned. “We’ll watch movie … we’ll study from that.”

Queta and the Celtics have just a few days relaxation earlier than taking over the Pistons Monday night time.