Neemias Queta, the Boston Celtics' rising star, is determined to sharpen a key weakness in his game: his free-throw shooting. He's been a revelation this season, but one area needs serious attention.
Published on December 13, 2025, by Souichi Terada of MassLive.com, this article dives into Queta's commitment to improvement.
Queta has been a force to be reckoned with, especially in the paint, becoming a crucial defensive asset. However, his free-throw percentage has dipped, and he's not happy about it.
This season, Queta is shooting a mere 61.2% from the free-throw line, attempting 2.1 shots per game. This is a significant drop from his career average of 71.3%. Although the sample size of 49 free throws isn't massive, Queta recognizes the need for change.
"I can get better," Queta admitted. "It’s been a tough year for me at the line. I usually feel pretty confident when I’m out there. I don’t know what’s going on. Maybe it’s repetition or maybe it’s just getting my legs under it. But something I need to get better at, most definitely, because that’s unacceptable. ... I’m too good of a shooter to shoot that bad."
Queta's importance to the Celtics is undeniable, especially since he stepped into the starting role. With key players like Kristaps Porzingis, Luke Kornet, and Al Horford departing, Queta's presence has been vital.
The Celtics have also experimented with smaller lineups, with players like Josh Minott filling in at center. While they have other backup big men, such as Luka Garza and Xavier Tillman, their impact has been limited. This makes Queta's unique contributions even more valuable.
The Celtics have surprised many with their impressive start, boasting a 15-10 record, placing them third in the Eastern Conference. Queta's role in this success is undeniable, and he's focused on improving his free throws.
"I feel like I’m pretty good in my free-throw percentages," Queta stated. "I usually go confident, and a majority of times I make them. I don’t know what’s going on this year. Gotta get right. Watch film. Get repetitions. I’ve been getting right in them. And I think it’s a matter of time before I get going. Maybe it’s just a shooting slump. That’s how I like to see it. I’ll get better at that."
But here's where it gets controversial: Could this dip in free-throw percentage be a temporary slump, or does it hint at a deeper issue?
What are your thoughts? Do you think Queta's free-throw struggles are a cause for concern, or is it just a matter of time before he returns to form? Share your opinions in the comments below!**
