Celtics’ Newcomer Tipped as Top 2025-26 Breakout Star
The Boston Celtics have begun the 2025-26 NBA season slowly, with a record of 1-3. Their upcoming game against the Cleveland Cavaliers poses a significant challenge. A major concern for the Celtics has been their rebounding ability, a problem compounded by the offseason departures of key centers. Al Horford, Luke Kornet, and Kristaps Porzingis, pivotal figures in the team’s frontcourt, are no longer with the team.
Luka Garza: The Potential 2025-26 Breakout Star
One of the centers filling this gap is Luka Garza. Garza joined the Celtics on a two-year contract worth $5.5 million, signed in July. The former standout from Iowa has spent his past three seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, his playing time in Minnesota was limited, averaging only 6.3 minutes per game over a span of 92 games.
So far this season, Garza has played in three games for the Celtics, averaging 12.7 minutes per game. His current stats reflect modest contributions: 6.0 points and 3.0 rebounds per game, which translates to 17.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per 36 minutes. Although Garza has yet to significantly impact Boston’s frontcourt, many believe his breakout opportunity is on the horizon.
Expert Predictions for Garza
In a recent article, CBS Sports’ Colin Ward-Henninger named Garza as the Celtics’ most likely breakout star for the season. He emphasized that Boston’s frontcourt rotation is open, creating opportunities for Garza to gain regular minutes.
- Garza was a second-round pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.
- Last season, he had a career-best performance in 39 games, averaging 22.7 points and 8.9 rebounds per 36 minutes.
- His shooting percentage was an impressive 50% from the field.
Ward-Henninger noted that if Garza can increase his playing time, he is likely to achieve career-high numbers. Currently, Boston’s other big men include Neemias Queta, Chris Boucher, and Xavier Tillman. While Queta and Boucher are currently more favored by coach Joe Mazzulla, any injuries could thrust Garza into a more prominent role.
As the season progresses, Luka Garza stands at a crucial juncture in his career. With the best opportunity yet to prove himself, he has the potential to be a significant contributor to the Boston Celtics in the 2025-26 season.
