The Celtics have conducted only three official practices since Media Day on Monday, but many players have been actively training at The Auerbach Center over the summer, leading to some early insights into potential roles within the team. Observations from media sessions and comments after practices offer subtle clues about what’s beginning to take shape.
More clarity will emerge once the team returns from South Carolina and especially after their first preseason game in Cleveland on October 8th, but for now, here are a few early impressions worth noting.
Baylor Scheierman Looks Set to Start at Quarterback
Scheierman expressed enthusiasm about having more playmaking chances this season. As a former high school quarterback, he highlighted his basketball IQ and situational awareness as key strengths. Given the positive feedback he’s received, it’s believable that the 26-year-old could secure a starting position.
Mike Conley praised Scheierman for his hustle, particularly noting a moment when Scheierman grabbed four offensive rebounds on one possession, showing his determination to keep plays alive and make smart decisions. Boston is expected to pick up his fourth-year contract option, and the bigger question is whether Brad Stevens will secure him with a rookie extension. If coach Joe Mazzulla has any sway, Scheierman could become a long-term asset for the team.
Mazzulla emphasized Scheierman’s professionalism and development, noting he excels not only at hustle plays like offensive rebounds but has also improved in other areas through dedicated effort this summer.
Paul George Seen as Replacing Jayson Tatum, Not Jaylen Brown
When Jaylen Brown was still with the Celtics, Jayson Tatum often exited midway through the first and third quarters to allow Brown to lead the transition between units. Going forward, Brown will likely take on more responsibility as the early-going workhorse and closer on even quarters. The bigger story here revolves around Paul George.
Pre-training camp reports, typically optimistic, indicate that Paul George is feeling strong and appears close to his former self. Now 36 and entering his 17th season, George has missed significant time previously — only 78 games combined over two seasons with the 76ers. However, if he can contribute around 62-67 games this year at a high level, he might serve as a solid secondary scorer alongside Tatum, as well as anchor an improved bench unit featuring Payton Pritchard.
Using a roster-building tool by CelticsBlog’s Nate Moskowitz, George’s minutes align with specialized wing players like Sam Hauser and Jordan Walsh, which would allow coach Mazzulla to balance the lineup effectively — assuming PG13 can shoulder that “superstar-lite” scoring load.
Neemias Queta Expected to be a Starter
Queta coined the nickname “Big Fella University” for the Celtics’ big-man group that includes himself, newly added Mitchell Robinson (his former teammate), Luka Garza, Chris Cenac Jr., and Amari Williams. But Queta has clearly graduated from being just a promising rookie. After moving between Maine and Boston on a two-way contract and earning a full deal, this summer he signed a four-year, $56 million contract, cementing his role as a foundational player.
Queta has been getting significant practice time with stars like Derrick White, Paul George, and Jayson Tatum. Over the summer, he improved his mobility and ability to score off the dribble, skills he demonstrated during his recent FIBA games. If he translates that skill set to the NBA court, there should be no question about him starting over Robinson — Queta is poised to be the team’s main big man.
Notably, Queta will also have a bobblehead night at TD Garden on January 27th, joining the ranks of Jayson Tatum, Payton Pritchard, and Derrick White.
Fan Take:
This news is a thrilling glimpse into the Celtics’ evolving roster, highlighting both emerging talent and seasoned vets ready to step up. For basketball fans, watching players like Scheierman and Queta rise, alongside a reinvigorated Paul George, signals a compelling blend of youth development and veteran leadership that could redefine the team’s competitive future.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
