Celtics Fans Won’t Believe Where Neemias Queta’s Defensive Rating Ranks

Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta doesn’t always jump off the page when you’re looking at box scores, but don’t underestimate his impact on winning. Queta’s assignment entering the 2025-26 season was to help fill a gaping void left in the wake of Al Horford, Luke Kornet, and Kristaps Porzingis, and Queta has delivered.

Averages of 9.3 points, 7.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game don’t tell the complete story on Queta. His defensive rating (entering Monday’s games) was fifth-best in the entire NBA at 100.6.

Joe Mazzulla was asked about Queta’s defense on Sunday ahead of the Celtics-Magic game. At that point, Queta ranked third in the league in defensive rating.

Joe Mazzulla on Neemias Queta’s 100.2 defensive rating, which is third-best in the NBA:

“I think our defense is pretty good in general. But I think he's also really improved. Especially in his rim protection and pick-and-roll defense… He's really grown that area.” pic.twitter.com/t2RKVUhrx6

— Justin Turpin (@JustinmTurpin) November 23, 2025

“I think our defense is pretty good in general,” Mazzulla said, per WEEI’s Justin Turpin. “But I think he’s also really improved. Especially in his rim protection and pick-and-roll defense.”

Hilariously. seven of the top 10 defensive-rated players in the NBA are from the Oklahoma City Thunder, including the top four players ahead of Queta: Alex Caruso (1), Ajay Mitchell (2), Chet Holmgren (3), and Isaiah Joe (4).

Right behind Queta are OKC’s Jaylin Williams (6) and Cason Wallace (7). In essence, the highest-rated defenders in the NBA these days are half of the OKC Thunder … and Neemias Queta!

Mazzulla has been able to keep Queta’s minutes relatively modest (23.6 MPG) so far this season to keep the big man fresh for the long season ahead.

The Celtics also have Luka Garza and Chris Boucher to eat minutes at center, but Queta is by far the most effective five-man that Mazzulla is working with at the moment.

It’s been very impressive to watch Queta’s development up through the G League, becoming a huge part of this Celtics franchise during a pivotal moment. The Portuguese center will have a huge test on Wednesday as the Celtics face off against the 14-2 Detroit Pistons, who feature Jalen Duren and his 11.5 rebounds per game. Detroit also has another strong center in Isaiah Stewart to deal with.

Boston is 9-8 on the season after a victory over the Magic on Sunday.