Past Celtics teams have had them - the big bruiser that isn't a star but can bump, grind and help wear out the burly stars of the opposition. Jim Loscutoff, Wayne Embry, Kendrick Perkins and Aron Baynes come quickly to mind.
But I see no current guy on Boston's roster that fills that need. Who is going to take the buffeting from Giannis Antetokounmpo, Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic? Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis and Luke Kornet will tussle with that trio, but none are up to the task for extended minutes.
Neemias Queta, at 7-feet and 245 pounds, was signed by Brad Stevens to a 2-Way Contract, which allows him to play up to 50 games in the regular season. He is primarily a defender, rebounder and rim protector. In Boston's win over the 76'ers on October 11 in preseason, the big guy played less than eight minutes and supplied 10 points (4-of-4 FG), three boards, two assists and a plus/minus of +14.
The Portuguese big man still looks a bit raw, but at only 24 years of age, player development could transform him into the tough bruiser The Green is going to need in the long haul.
NOTE: Don't forget our "Third-Man-Off-The-Bench" contest. Here's the link.
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