Ceiling, floor, expectations: Luka Garza with the Boston Celtics in 2026-27

As the 2026 NBA offseason approaches, the Boston Celtics are making significant roster changes, with star forward Jaylen Brown traded to the Philadelphia 76ers. This marks a key season for the team as they aim to maximize their sole superstar, Jayson Tatum. To assess the potential of players under contract with Boston in this new structure, Daniel Donabedian and Justin Quinn at the Celtics Wire have provided a player-by-player analysis. In this edition, they focus on the outlook for Luka Garza, the center.

Garza's ceiling in the frontcourt is limited, with little space to grow in minutes and role without an unlikely failure from a fellow big man. However, he can improve his game by maintaining his career-high 3-point accuracy from last season at 43.3 percent above 40 percent while enhancing his defensive mobility. This could be achieved by either being the third or second center coming off the bench.

If Garza's efficiency remains consistent, he can serve as a unique 3-point threat for the Celtics' lineup, giving them an advantage over opponents who struggle with perimeter shooting.

On the other hand, Garza's floor is as restricted as his ceiling, given the role he currently occupies. If his outside shooting declines or his defensive mobility worsens, rookie big man Chris Cenac Jr. could fill those minutes. Though his worst-case scenario would see him out of the rotation, this may not be detrimental to the Celtics, as it would remind Garza of his experience with the Minnesota Timberwolves where he averaged only nine minutes per game over three seasons.

Additionally, a decline in Garza's defense would widen the gap between him and the other centers on the team. A disappointing season in his final years could be particularly challenging, as Garza becomes an unrestricted free agent following the 2026-27 campaign.

Despite these potential challenges, Donabedian and Quinn are optimistic about Garza's future. They attribute his improvement to his increased work ethic and the incremental improvement in his game. Head coach Joe Mazzulla's praise for Garza's rebounding further bolsters his chances of remaining in the rotation. While his minutes might decrease, Garza has proven himself capable of making an impact in the NBA.

Although the Celtics may invest in Cenac Jr. and young center Amari Williams for a future without Garza, it is still possible that another team could bring him in next season if Boston decides to move on.