NBA Writer Names Celtics' Most 'Difficult' Free-Agent Call This Offseason

Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta

NBA Writer Names Celtics' Most 'Difficult' Free-Agent Call This Offseason originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Boston Celtics are hoping to add another NBA championship to their collection before they have to make tough roster moves this offseason. The decisions they face could significantly impact the franchise's future.

Celtics starting center Neemias Queta has a club option worth $2.6 million for next season, and Boston must decide whether to exercise it or allow him to enter free agency. According to Grant Hughes from Bleacher Report, Queta is likely to be the most challenging free-agent decision for the Celtics this offseason.

"The Boston Celtics can pick up his $2.7 million team option for 2026-27 or try to lock Queta down on a longer deal. The team's desire to stay below the tax threshold means his first-year salary under a new contract would have to be under $15 million," Hughes wrote on Thursday. "However, they could offer substantially more if they pick up the option and make him a retention priority in the 2027 offseason.

"Allowing Queta to hit unrestricted free agency could create real competition, especially if he continues to play like a legitimately good starter on a contender throughout the playoffs and next season. Maybe Queta would jump at the chance to sign a four-year deal worth $70-80 million this summer, but he could also take the risk of betting on himself."