Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta during the team’s celebrations of their 18th NBA title.Credit: Getty Images

'Been Dealing With This Stuff Since a Couple Years Ago' – Boston Celtics Potential Starting Center Shares Huge Injury Update

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Aug 6, 2025 11:12 AM ET

Following the departures of Kristaps Porzingis, Luke Kornet , and Al Horford, the Boston Celtics will likely have Neemias Queta as their starting center next season, barring any new moves.

It was revealed recently that, like Jaylen Brown, Queta underwent arthroscopic surgery in May to clean up his knee. The 26-year-old center will represent Portugal in the upcoming FIBA EuroBasket tournament later this month.

“It’s been good. We’ve been dealing with this stuff (since) a couple years ago. We just decided it was a great time for us to do it. We’re trying to get back to 100%,” Queta told CLNS of his recovery.

Nov 10, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reaches for a rebound between Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) and center Neemias Queta (88) in the second quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

“We feel pretty confident in the process, and we’re just grateful that we were taken care of, and I want to make sure I’m healthy and get back to 100% and I feel like I’m on the right path to do that,” he added.

Boston Celtics sign two-time NBA champion free agent after shedding Georges Niang’s salary

The Boston Celtics recently traded Georges Niang and two future second-round picks to the Utah Jazz for rookie RJ Luis Jr. After that, they have agreed to a one-year, $3.3 million contract with Chris Boucher.

Russell Westbrook's Action Nearly Triggers Full-Blown Fight During Nuggets vs. Raptors 2 Oct 28, 2024; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Westbrook (4) drives to the net against Toronto forward Chris Boucher (25) during the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

These moves put the Boston Celtics $7.8 million below the second apron, saving $34 million in luxury tax penalties. Since the NBA Draft, they have reduced their payroll from $540 million to $239 million.

Boucher will have the opportunity to carve out a big role in Boston’s frontcourt next season. The 32-year-old forward averaged 10.0 points and 4.5 rebounds on 49.2 percent shooting from the field across 50 regular season games with the Toronto Raptors last season.