Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta is receiving significant recognition as the league's most underrated player following his breakout season. His defensive impact has been a key factor in the Celtics' current form, which includes a dominant 144-118 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on April 10, 2026. The team is on a five-game winning streak.
NBA analyst Kevin Chouinard made the bold claim on the Celtics Daily Podcast. He argued that the Portuguese big man deserves far more attention for his play. "You’ve got Paul George, you know; you’ve got Queta, who I think is, you know, probably the most underrated player in the league," Chouinard said. This praise comes after Queta seized a starting role when Boston's frontcourt was reshaped last offseason.
His statistics from the 2025-26 campaign back up the hype. Queta averaged 10.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks over 76 games. He shot a franchise-record 65.3% from the field. His minutes skyrocketed to 25.3 per game, and he played over 1,900 total minutes after never reaching 1,000 before. The Celtics' net rating was 8.6 points better with him on the floor.
Queta's rim protection transformed Boston's identity. Opponents shot just 51% at the rim when he was the primary defender, a mark that ranked seventh in the NBA. His presence allowed the team to stay competitive despite major roster changes. The addition of Mitchell Robinson this offseason creates a formidable duo.
Chouinard highlighted this on the podcast. "You’re going to have a good, like a very good defensive center on the floor at all times with Mr. Robinson and Queta," he said. "Like you got 48 minutes of center play and the rim is going to be protected." Queta himself welcomed the help, joking he's happy not to battle Robinson for rebounds anymore.
The next step is translating regular-season success into a deeper playoff run. Queta's postseason in 2026 exposed areas for growth, like foul trouble against Joel Embiid. But his regular season proved he belongs as a full-time NBA starter. Analysts are now watching him closely as a player who could make another leap.
Boston's recent results show the team is clicking. Their five-game win streak includes a 133-101 road win in Milwaukee and a 147-129 victory in Miami. With Queta and Robinson securing the paint, the Celtics have built a defensive foundation that makes them a tough out every night. Their last result, a 144-118 win over New Orleans, is a clear example of their offensive firepower when the defense is set.
