Who Will Be the Celtics' Go-To Big Man This Season?

The Boston Celtics are facing a transformative season ahead, particularly regarding their centre position after significant roster changes. With the departure of Al Horford and the arrival of new players, the question looms: who will step up as the primary centre? Key contenders include Neemias Queta, Chris Boucher, and others, each bringing different strengths and experiences to the team. This article dives deep into their potential contributions, the challenges they face, and why this season may define the future of the Celtics' frontcourt.

Last updated: 07 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Celtics must find a new starting centre following Al Horford's departure.
• Neemias Queta is emerging as a strong candidate after positive performances.
• Chris Boucher brings veteran experience but is on a short-term contract.
• Young players like Luka Garza and Xavier Tillman could play crucial roles.
• The Celtics have historically been cautious in investing at the centre position.

Current Centre Landscape in Boston

With the 2025-26 season approaching, the Boston Celtics find themselves in a precarious position at the centre spot. The departure of Al Horford and the need to replace 4,200 minutes played last season by the big-man trio of Horford, Luke Kornet, and Kristaps Porzingis raise questions about who will occupy this pivotal role. Among the candidates, Neemias Queta stands out due to his recent performances and experience with the team.

Neemias Queta: The Rising Star

Queta, who has spent two seasons with the Celtics, has shown significant improvement in his game. His performance at EuroBasket, where he scored 23 points and grabbed 18 rebounds against Czechia, is a testament to his growing skills. Many analysts believe that Queta has the potential to emerge as the primary centre, especially considering his familiarity with the Celtics' system and coaching staff.

Chris Boucher: The Veteran Presence

Joining the Celtics on a one-year minimum contract, Chris Boucher brings a wealth of experience to the team. At 33, he is not part of the long-term plans but could play a vital role in the immediate future. Boucher's history of playing significant minutes in the NBA makes him a reliable option, although his short contract raises questions about his long-term impact.

Challenges Facing the Celtics' Big Men

The Celtics' centre position is not without its challenges. With a largely inexperienced group, the team must balance giving minutes to veterans like Boucher while also developing younger players. This will be particularly important as the team aims to build a core capable of contending for titles in the coming years.

Defensive Responsibilities

Defence will be critical for whoever steps into the starting centre role. Queta has shown improvement on the defensive end, which is vital for a Celtics team that prides itself on defensive capabilities. Boucher, on the other hand, while experienced, will need to show he can consistently defend at a high level to earn the trust of head coach Joe Mazzulla.

Offensive Contributions

On the offensive side, both Queta and Boucher bring different skill sets. Queta's ability to rebound and create second-chance opportunities will be crucial for the Celtics, especially as they integrate new players into their system. Boucher's offensive versatility as a floor spacer could also provide valuable options, particularly in small-ball lineups.

Potential Lineups and Strategies

As the Celtics assess their options, various lineup configurations could emerge. The team may opt for a traditional centre approach with Queta or Boucher starting, or they could experiment with small-ball lineups featuring players like Luka Garza and Xavier Tillman. These decisions will heavily depend on matchups and the development of the younger players throughout the season.

Small-Ball Lineup Possibilities

With the NBA trending towards smaller, more versatile lineups, the Celtics could benefit from implementing small-ball strategies. Players like Garza and Tillman could slide into the centre position, allowing for more agility and pace on the court. This approach would play to the strengths of the Celtics' perimeter players, potentially leading to an exciting brand of basketball.

The Future of the Celtics' Centre Position

As the Celtics look towards the future, the current roster will be crucial in shaping the team's identity. While Queta appears to be the frontrunner for centre minutes, the performance of Boucher and the younger players will ultimately determine the direction the Celtics take. The centre of the future may not yet be on the roster, but the development of current players will be key in addressing this uncertainty.

Long-Term Considerations

Historically, the Celtics have been cautious in their investments at the centre position, with the recent acquisition of Porzingis being an exception. The team will need to evaluate whether Queta, Garza, and others can provide the stability and skill needed to compete in a tough Eastern Conference. With the right development, the Celtics could find themselves with a strong centre rotation in the coming years.

Conclusion

The Boston Celtics are at a crossroads as they enter the 2025-26 season, particularly concerning their centre position. With Neemias Queta emerging as a strong candidate and Chris Boucher providing veteran experience, the team faces critical decisions that will shape their future. As the younger players look to establish themselves, it will be fascinating to see how the Celtics navigate this transition period. Will they find the centre of their future within the current roster, or will they need to look elsewhere? The answers will unfold throughout the season.

FAQs

Who will be the starting centre for the Celtics in 2025-26?

While Neemias Queta is likely the frontrunner due to his experience and recent performances, Chris Boucher could also play a significant role depending on matchups and coaching strategies.

What is the impact of Chris Boucher on the Celtics' centre position?

Boucher brings veteran experience and a proven ability to play significant minutes in the NBA. His presence may provide stability while younger players like Queta develop their skills.

How important is defence for the Celtics' centre position?

Defence is crucial for the Celtics, who pride themselves on their defensive capabilities. Whichever player steps into the centre role must demonstrate the ability to defend effectively.

What are the prospects for Neemias Queta this season?

Queta has shown significant improvement and has a strong chance to emerge as a key player for the Celtics. His performance at EuroBasket suggests he is ready for a larger role this season.

Will the Celtics use small-ball lineups this season?

Yes, the Celtics could utilise small-ball lineups featuring players like Luka Garza and Xavier Tillman, allowing for more versatility and pace on the court.