Overview
- Queta came up limping after a midair collision with Orlando’s Anthony Black in the first quarter and was shown hobbling to the locker room.
- The team announced he sustained a left ankle sprain and was questionable to return during the game at TD Garden.
- Chris Boucher was the first replacement off Boston’s bench, and the Celtics later used Josh Minott at center, with Luka Garza noted as Queta’s usual primary backup.
- Queta rose to the starting job after offseason departures of Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet, entering Sunday at 9.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game.
- Coach Joe Mazzulla praised Queta’s rim protection and pick‑and‑roll defense, and multiple outlets noted Boston’s defense and on/off metrics have been far stronger with him on the floor.