Neemias Queta Delivers Game-Saving Performance In Celtics’ Stunning Comeback originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Jayson Tatum finished as the Boston Celtics‘ leading scorer Wednesday night, but Neemias Queta deserves considerable credit for keeping the team’s winning streak alive. The Celtics erased a 22-point deficit against the Toronto Raptors, escaping Scotiabank Arena with a 98-93 victory. Queta delivered a double-double and several crucial plays during the closing moments, helping Boston improve to 10-2.
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The Celtics center finished with 11 points, 13 rebounds, three assists and three blocked shots in nearly 31 minutes. Perhaps the most impressive number associated with his performance was his plus-27 rating. Boston outscored Toronto by 27 points during Queta’s time on the floor despite winning the game by only five.
Queta Makes His Presence Felt Late
Toronto held a 93-90 advantage entering the final minute, leaving Boston in danger of wasting its impressive comeback. Queta cut the deficit to one with a dunk off a pass from Tatum before making another significant contribution on the defensive end. His ability to protect the basket helped Boston prevent Toronto from extending its lead.
Tatum subsequently put the Celtics ahead with two free throws, and Queta helped secure the victory with two successful attempts of his own. The sequence demonstrated the importance of having a dependable interior presence when games become physical and possessions become increasingly valuable. Queta’s contributions extended far beyond the traditional responsibilities of a reserve center.
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Boston’s Frontcourt Depth Continues To Pay Off
The Celtics played without Paul George, who missed the game because of an illness after scoring 36 points against Philadelphia on Tuesday. Boston consequently needed additional production from its supporting cast, particularly with Tatum struggling to find his shooting rhythm. Derrick White scored 19 points, Payton Pritchard added 14 and Queta supplied the interior production that helped complete the comeback.
Boston has now won five consecutive games and remains unbeaten against Atlantic Division opponents. The Celtics’ ability to win Wednesday despite shooting difficulties and the absence of a prominent scorer should provide considerable encouragement moving forward. Queta’s performance also offered another reminder that Boston’s success will require meaningful contributions from players beyond its established stars.
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The Celtics return home to face Dallas on Sunday, giving Queta and his teammates several days to recover from their successful road trip.
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Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: Sports.yahoo.com
