Neemias Queta: Celtics' Unexpected Star

0:00For the NBA, it's March 4th. Here's what's happening. Nehemiah's KEDA has become the unexpected star, filling a huge gap in the Boston Celtics front court this season. After losing key big men like Al Hoerford, Christopps Porzingis, and Luke Cornett in the offseason, the team turned to the 7-foot Portuguese center, their first ever from that country. Back in July, Celtics president Brad Stevens admitted they were unsure of KEDA and a couple others could handle it, but KEDA has stepped up big. Time. Through 57 games, he's averaging career highs of 10.1 points, 8.4 rebounds, 0.9 steals, and 1.3. Blocks per game, shooting over 64% from the field. He's already logged more minutes, points, rebounds, and blocks this year than in his first four NBA seasons combined. Just Sunday, he dropped a career-best 27 points in 17 boards in a win over the Philadelphia 76ers. Teammates can't say enough about his impact. Luca Garza called him a force with real skill,

1:02while coach Joe Missoula praised his work ethic and constant drive to improve. With KEDA anchoring the paint, the Celtics sit at 41 wins and 20 losses, second in the east, and betting odds now make them favorites to. Reach the NBA Finals, especially with Jason Tatum nearing a return. KEDA thrives inside, ranking high in dunks at 96 this season, and elite in screen assists and offensive rebounds. He's no outside shooter, but his roles to the rim and physicality open up the floor for Boston shooters, helping them lead in second chance points. Defensively, the team is top five in rating with him on the court, as he swatch shots and cuts opponent rim efficiency. Meanwhile, even rim protection sometimes gets him in trouble with Missoula for swatting balls out of bounds, instead of grabbing them for transition. Still, his presence has kept Boston contending without missing a beat, proving versatile bigs like him can power their attack in new ways. The Daily News Now is made possible with support from our sponsor, a pillow that plays your sound

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