Celtics decline team option on NBA champ Neemias Queta

After picking up a team option on Sam Hauser earlier today, the Celtics have opted to not pick up Neemias Queta’s for next season per The Boston Globe’s Adam Himmelsbach.

That doesn’t mean that Queta won’t be with the team next season. Both parties could still pursue a long-term deal in free agency after he became another success story for the Celtics and their G League affiliate in Maine. Queta originally started the season on a two-way contract after being released by the Sacramento Kings, but was converted on a standard deal for the playoff run in April.

During a ten-game stretch in December, Queta averaged 5.7 points and 5.1 rebounds in 15.4 minutes per game. He was also an integral part in the Main Celtics’ run in the G League Finals.

With Kristaps Porzingis’ recovery predicted to be in the 5-6 month range with a potential return in December, Boston’s big man depth will be challenged to start the 2024-20245 regular season with only Al Horford signed for next season. In addition to Queta, Luke Kornet and Xavier Tillman Sr. are also free agents.

However, by declining Queta’s option, the Celtics have created some flexibility in free agency. If they can’t make a deal with their own FA’s, they could sign ring-chasing veterans to minimum deals. Per MassLive’s Brian Robb, there’s mutual interest between the front office and former Celtic Daniel Theis with a veteran pool that includes Mason Plumlee, Andre Drummond, and Goga Bitadze to dip in to.