ESPN Projects Robinson and Queta to Deliver Top Five Center Value

The Boston Celtics could gain elite production from their center rotation during the 2026-27 NBA season, with ESPN projecting that Mitchell Robinson and Neemias Queta could collectively deliver value comparable to one of the league's five best centers. The prediction, published October 19, 2026, highlights the potential impact of pairing two players with complementary strengths in Boston's system under head coach Joe Mazzulla.

ESPN included the forecast in its Power Rankings covering all 30 NBA teams ahead of the new season. According to ESPN's Zach Kram, the Celtics' two centers could generate exceptional combined value through efficient scoring, defensive contributions and work that extends beyond the traditional box score.

"Bold prediction: Robinson and Queta combine to produce the value of a top-five center," ESPN's Zach Kram wrote.

The assessment emphasizes how advanced statistics evaluate the pair's contributions, particularly their ability to secure offensive rebounds, establish position defensively and set effective screens. Those skills could make their combined impact greater than their individual recognition suggests.

"Advanced stats adore both Robinson and Queta, who score efficiently, play stalwart defense and do all the little things — such as grab offensive rebounds and set sturdy screens — that make them stand out in player value metrics.

Robinson arrives in Boston after spending the first eight seasons of his NBA career with the New York Knicks. During the previous season, he averaged 5.7 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game, while establishing himself as one of the NBA's leading offensive rebounders. He also played an important bench role during New York's championship run.

"Neither player is an All-Star on his own, but their partnership could produce All-Star-caliber value in Mazzulla's system."

Queta enters the upcoming campaign following a breakout season with Boston. He averaged 10.2 points, 8.4 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game, starting 75 of his 76 regular-season appearances. His consistent role in the lineup provides the Celtics with an established interior contributor alongside their new addition.

ESPN's forecast does not suggest that either center is expected to earn individual All-Star recognition. Instead, the projection centers on their combined production, with Robinson's offensive rebounding and defensive presence complementing Queta's recent performance as a regular starter.