Since signing a two-way contract, Neemias Queta has maximized his opportunity with the Boston Celtics.
The first player from Portugal to reach the NBA, an honor he takes tremendous pride in, generated 9.7 points and 4.7 rebounds in 11.5 minutes per game in the preseason.
His head coach, Joe Mazzulla, conveyed the following about Queta in a conversation with Inside The Celtics.
"He's done everything we've asked him to do, and he's come in every day, and he's worked. And I really like how he's gotten better and better each time he's been on the floor. So, we're excited that we have an opportunity to develop him."
The seven-foot, 245-pound center showcased in the preseason that he possesses an impressive blend of size, strength, and athleticism. He's an above-the-rim threat his teammates love throwing lobs to. That vertical spacing also gets defenses to collapse, creating open threes for teammates.
Furthermore, Queta's a forceful screener, another way he can free up his teammates. He demonstrated the ability to run dribble handoffs effectively and even had a few dimes in Boston's exhibition play.
The 24-year-old's also a quality rim protector, and he's cut down on the fouling since committing five in 14 minutes in a 114-107 preseason loss to the New York Knicks.
His productivity has sparked the question of whether he'll have his contract converted from a two-way deal to an agreement that gives him a full-time roster spot with the Celtics.
Even with the expectation Boston takes a similar approach with Lamar Stevens, who's on an Exhibit 9 contract that's about to get converted ahead of opening night, the team will still have a vacant roster spot.
However, a league source told Brian Robb of MassLive the Celtics will likely keep Queta on a two-way deal.
Given they're already over the second apron, it's no surprise they're opting for salary-cap savings and roster flexibility. But with that said, there could be nights when the 39th pick in the 2021 NBA Draft earns playing time in addition to or over Luke Kornet, especially if Al Horford or Kristaps Porzingis are unavailable.
And if he continues to stand out when given court time, perhaps it leads to the former Sacramento King earning a full-time roster spot in-season.
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