In navigating the buyout market, the Boston Celtics find themselves with numerous options, including the potential addition of former Celtic Mike Muscala, who the Pistons plan to buy out, as reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. However, according to insights from The Boston Globe’s Adam Himmelsbach, the likelihood of bringing Muscala back is deemed “unlikely” based on information from a league source. Despite this, no definitive decision has been made, leaving room for possibilities.
Mike Muscala had a brief stint with the Celtics in 2023, contributing in 20 regular season games with an average of 5.9 points, shooting 47.2% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range. While Muscala’s return may be uncertain, Himmelsbach notes that the Celtics are committed to filling their remaining roster spot. Moreover, they exhibit a deliberate approach, opting to take their time in evaluating potential additions and remaining open to possibilities.
Acknowledging the current vacancy in the Celtics’ final roster spot, there is no immediate urgency to finalize the decision. According to league sources, the Celtics are intentionally delaying the process, anticipating the potential emergence of needs in the coming weeks, particularly in response to injuries. This strategic evaluation reflects the team’s meticulous consideration of all available options before making a definitive roster move.
The Boston Celtics are considering utilizing their last roster spot for Neemias Queta.
While a reunion with Mike Muscala seems improbable, the Boston Celtics are exploring options to strengthen their frontcourt depth by potentially filling their final roster spot with Neemias Queta, as reported by Adam Himmelsbach in the same article. According to sources, the two-way contract center Neemias Queta is a contender for the remaining spot.
Neemias Queta is experiencing a standout season with the Celtics, achieving career-high averages of 4.9 points and 4.4 rebounds, accompanied by an impressive 61.3% shooting from the field. Currently operating under a two-way contract, Queta has played in 23 out of the 50 allowable games. With 24 games left in the season, he can participate in each one without concerns about exceeding the contract limit. If the Celtics decide to convert his contract to a standard deal, Queta would become eligible for the playoffs. On the other hand, if they opt not to convert, Queta would enter the 2024 NBA Offseason as a restricted free agent.
Himmelsbach also suggested an alternative approach the Celtics could take with the final roster spot. They might choose to wait until the conclusion of the regular season and sign a younger developmental player, similar to their addition of forward Justin Champagnie in April of the previous year. Regardless of the chosen path, Himmelsbach emphasizes that any potential addition is unlikely to secure significant playoff minutes.
The Phoenix Suns reportedly have no interest in Mike Muscala.
While there is no clear insight into the market interest for Mike Muscala, a notable contender can be eliminated from the list. According to information shared by radio host John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 through his X account, the Phoenix Suns have expressed no interest in acquiring Muscala. As Muscala approaches free agency, the possibility of a reunion with the Boston Celtics appears unlikely, and the Suns have explicitly been ruled out as an option. The impending free agent is anticipated to draw attention from teams with championship aspirations, and his preference would likely be to sign with a team where he can secure playing time.