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Neemias Queta · Noticeably thin at center with two former All-Star bigs missing from the Boston Celtics’ rotation, it felt like a surefire assumption that, at some point, Neemias Queta would check in, prepared to take full advantage of his extended run. In perfectly-poetic fashion, Queta’s distinctive ability to run the floor at 7-foot turned out to be the source of his most memorable sequence during November 1, 2024’s flawless night. Overwhelming throughout the evening’s back-and-forth battle, Queta — recognizing a five-on-four opportunity if urgent enough — punishes the Charlotte Hornets’ miscommunication, positioning behind the defense, and into the paint’s heart. Pivoted into a better angle, and now prepared to conquer any teal-and-white jersey nearby, Queta elevates into a fearsome one-handed flush over Miles Bridges’ late contest, stretching Boston’s late-game lead to seven. Guaranteed to showcase above-the-rim power of some sort whenever called upon, Queta’s play in Boston’s win allowed for 12 points (on a perfect six-of-six shooting), alongside six rebounds and one assist. · State of Mint