Entering this season, center Luka Garza’s role with the Boston Celtics was uncertain. Before signing a two-year, $5.26 million contract with Boston in the offseason, the former 2021 second-round selection had seen limited action over four seasons with the Detroit Pistons and Minnesota Timberwolves, appearing in just 124 contests, averaging 7.8 minutes per game.
With the Celtics losing numerous frontcourt contributors in the offseason, Garza finally had the opportunity to earn consistent minutes. The team held an unofficial competition for the backup center role behind starter Neemias Queta, with Garza competing against veterans Chris Boucher and Xavier Tillman Sr. Quickly, Garza emerged as the winner, showcasing his skills as a productive scorer around the rim and an effective rebounder in limited action.
Center Luka Garza Has Been a Vital Contributor Off the Bench
Although it’s still early, Garza has already proved to be the Celtics’ best addition. Through 13 games, Garza is posting career-highs in his backup role, averaging 7.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 0.5 blocked shots, while shooting 57.4% from the field in just 14.2 minutes per game.
Garza’s impact on both ends has been crucial, but none more important than his play on the glass, averaging 2.5 offensive rebounds per game, which ranks 33rd in the league. Earlier in the season, the Celtics raised concerns as they were consistently getting outrebounded. However, with Garza’s help, the Celtics have steadily improved in the rebounding department, which has alleviated some concerns, ranking 13th in rebounds per game (44.7) and seventh in offensive rebounds (13.7).
His impact off the bench has been noteworthy over these last four games, averaging 13 points, 6.8 rebounds, and four offensive rebounds, helping the Celtics go 3-1 in this stretch. Garza's impact continues to outshine big-name addition Anfernee Simons, who has been streaky to start.
Outside of scoring, Simons hasn't offered the Celtics much, averaging only 2.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds. While Simons has shown effort at times on defense, it hasn't been enough. If he isn't scoring, he's unplayable. In Sunday's win against the Los Angeles Clippers, Simons posted zero points and two assists in 12 minutes.
His inconsistencies and failure to improve as an all-around player have been disappointing and will only hurt his chances to cash in next summer on a massive payday. Meanwhile, Garza has not only excelled as the prototypical 'big man', but he's also gradually become a threat with his improved three-point shooting.
Garza's Improved Jumper Has Been Noteworthy
Before this season, Garza was a career 33.8% 3-point shooter on 1.2 attempts. This season, Garza is averaging 38.1% from beyond the arc on 1.6 attempts and has hit four 3-pointers in his last two games. If Garza’s shot continues to develop, this can lead to an increase in his minutes in head coach Joe Mazzulla’s offense.
‘Mazzulla Ball’ continues to be at the forefront of the Celtics’ offense, despite ranking 22nd in 3-point percentage (34%), and 2nd in 3-point attempts (44.4). However, with Garza’s improved jumper, the Celtics can potentially revert to their five-out offense. This not only gives Garza more opportunities for more minutes but also enhances the Celtics’ offense by creating more space for playmakers Jaylen Brown and Payton Pritchard.
Besides being a slower-footed big man, which has its limitations, Garza has had few downsides in his play. The only real concern with Garza is his penchant for fouling. Garza averages 3.1 fouls per game and has already fouled out of one game. If this issue turns into a long-term problem, the Celtics could potentially replace him with Tillman or Boucher.
But with Garza continuing to make a huge impact in every game, Boston fans should expect the Celtics to rely on both him and Queta at center.