BOSTON — Neemias Queta hobbled to the locker room with an ankle sprain in the first quarter of the Boston Celtics’ game against the Orlando Magic. Queta had played well in the first six minutes of the game, tallying 6 points (on 3-3 shooting) and 2 rebounds, but came down limping after drawing his second foul of the game.
The Celtics shared shortly after Queta’s exit was due to a left ankle sprain, and that he was questionable to return. Queta had not previously reported an ankle injury.
Almost immediately after being called for a foul, Queta headed to the locker room alongside several Celtics trainers. Chris Boucher, who has appeared in just 7 of 16 games so far this season, entered the lineup in his place and closed out the majority of the first quarter.
Neemias Queta’s absence could be consequential for the Celtics
Neemias Queta has been the Celtics’ leader in plus-minus so far this season; he’s averaging 9.5 points and 8.3 rebounds per game while shooting 61.8% from the field in 24.8 minutes per game. The Celtics have outscored opponents by 126 points with Queta on the court so far this season, by far the highest mark on the team.
If Queta’s absence is extended, backup center Luka Garza will presumably see more minutes. Garza has averaged 7.1 points and 4.2 rebounds in 14.8 minutes per game so far this season. In addition, Xavier Tillman, who has played sparingly this season, could see a more extended opportunity.
This story will be updated as more information is available.
