Neemias Queta has been one of the pleasant surprises of the early season for the Boston Celtics. The 7-footer has carved out a role with his relentless motor, rim protection, and improved feel for the game. Over the first 21 games, he’s been among the league leaders in plus-minus-a stat that doesn’t always tell the whole story, but in Queta’s case, it backs up what the eye test is already saying: when he’s on the floor, good things happen.
Still, as impressive as Queta has been, there’s a ceiling to what he can give you in a long playoff run. He thrives as a high-energy big off the bench-someone who can change the pace, contest shots, and crash the glass.
But if the Celtics are serious about adding another banner to the rafters, they’ll need a little more firepower in the frontcourt rotation. That likely means targeting a starting-caliber big man, either at the trade deadline or in the offseason.
One name that’s starting to gain traction in league circles is Walker Kessler. At 24, Kessler is already one of the most impactful shot-blockers in the league. Last season, he averaged 2.4 blocks per game and pulled down 12.2 rebounds a night-numbers that speak to his ability to control the paint on both ends of the floor.
The fit in Boston makes a lot of sense. Kessler brings size, rim deterrence, and defensive instincts that would complement the Celtics’ switch-heavy perimeter defense. Pairing him with Queta would give Boston a young, athletic, and defensively focused center duo-something they haven’t had in years.
From a financial standpoint, there’s a pathway to making it work. Kessler is in the final year of a $13.3 million deal and will hit restricted free agency this summer.
That means Boston would have to put together a compelling offer to convince Utah not to match. But with Kessler coming off shoulder surgery that’s sidelined him for the rest of the season, the market might not be as competitive as it would’ve been otherwise.
That injury is the one big question mark. Kessler underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder and won’t play again this season.
So any move for him would require a deep dive into his medicals. But if the Celtics’ front office is confident in his recovery, the upside is hard to ignore.
Brad Stevens has shown he’s not afraid to make bold moves when the opportunity is right. If the goal is to solidify the center position for the long haul, Kessler should be on the short list. He’s young, he fits the team’s identity, and he could be the kind of long-term solution that helps extend Boston’s championship window-not just for this season, but for years to come.