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Joe Mazzulla, Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics made plenty of headlines this summer for reshaping their roster. But one of their quieter moves, signing center Luka Garza to a modest two-year, $5.5 million offer, is starting to get attention.
At the time, Garza was projected as depth behind Neemias Queta and Chris Boucher. After three seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves where he played sparingly, few expected Boston’s investment to pay immediate dividends. Yet, insiders believe he may be one of the most intriguing breakout candidates on the roster.
Celtics Insider Sees Garza as Breakout Option
Jay King of The Athletic recently spotlighted Garza’s potential in a deep dive on Boston’s roster construction. He pointed out how Garza’s special NBA minutes still show plenty of upside.
Over his career, Garza has posted an offensive rebound rate of 15.9 percent. That figure would have ranked second in the NBA last season among qualified players. Per 36 minutes, he has averaged 25.8 points and 9.1 rebounds. The catch is that those numbers came in just 584 total minutes across three years. Still, the production hints at untapped potential if Boston gives him steady opportunities.
Why Boston Might Take the Gamble
There are clear concerns. As King noted, Garza has not proven he can defend the rim at a high level, which is crucial for a Celtics team built around defensive identity. His outside shot is also a question mark.
But Boston is in evaluation mode. With Jayson Tatum sidelined long-term and the frontcourt thinned by the departures of Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis, and Luke Kornet, opportunities are wide open.
Garza’s college résumé is a reminder of what he can do when trusted. A two-time First Team All-American at Iowa and a two-time Sporting News Player of the Year, he was once one of the most dominant double-double machines in the country.
The Celtics’ Big Man Picture
The Celtics enter camp with options at center: Queta, Boucher, Garza, Xavier Tillman, and rookie Amari Williams. On paper, it’s depth. But the talent hierarchy is unsettled.
If Garza can bring his energy, offensive rebounding, and scoring punch to Boston’s second unit, he may carve out a bigger role than expected. Nobody is expecting him to become an All-Star, but in a season of transition, he has a chance to become one of the Celtics’ quiet success stories.
Keith Watkins Keith Watkins is a sports journalist covering the NBA for Heavy.com, with a focus on the Golden State Warriors, Boston Celtics, and Los Angeles Lakers. He previously wrote for FanSided, NBA Analysis Network, and Last Word On Sports. Keith is based in Bangkok, Thailand. More about Keith Watkins
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