When Josh Minott signed with the Boston Celtics, not much was thought of this move. Minnesota Timberwolves fans always knew the 2022 second-round pick had some promise, especially on the defensive end, and signing with the Celtics gave him a clear opportunity.
However, I don't think anyone could have envisioned just how impactful Minott has been to start the season. Minott has now started in two out of four games for the Celtics, averaging 22.3 minutes, 9.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 2.3 stocks. As a starter, Minott is averaging 13 points, 12 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 3 stocks.
Yes, it's a small sample size, but Minott also has an absurd 22.7 net on-off swing. While these numbers might hold true across an 82 game season, Minott has found the perfect home in Boston.
Minott has been a perfect fit with the Celtics
For a Celtics squad that lacks rebounding and defense, Minott has been a revelation. Undoubtedly, this helped him earn the trust of Joe Mazzulla. Minott ranks second in rebounds per game and brings relentless energy. The 22-year-old forward, bringing an elite motor, isn't much of a surprise to Wolves fans. Regardless, just how impactful he's been is a surprise.
Minott is holding opponents to 35.1 percent shooting on 9.3 attempts per game. His versatility has been incredibly impressive. Minott has spent 44 percent of his time defending opposing guards. However, during Wednesday's game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Minott defended Evan Mobley, holding him to 0-6 shooting.
Josh Minott absolute lockdown on Evan Mobley pic.twitter.com/L8ZJqGHsT3
— NikNBA🏀 (@NIKNBAYT) October 30, 2025
Minott chipped in 11 points, 15 rebounds, four stocks and two dimes en route to a 20-point Celtics wing. Without a doubt, Minott's defense and energy helped flip the game in the Celtics' favor.
It's also worth noting that per databallr, Minott ranks in the 100th percentile for deflections per 100 possessions; he ranked in the 92nd percentile for this stat last year. As Jayson Tatum is dealing with an injury, Minott's defensive versatility is immensely valuable. Moreover, it looks like the Celtics found a perfect role player for when Tatum returns.
Offensively, Minott has found his role as a cutter and crasher. He is posting an impressive 2.3 offensive boards per game. Additionally, Minott is shooting a miraculous 100 percent at the rim, a number that isn't sustainable but, of course, impressive. Minott's connective playmaking has also been noticeable; he has averaged 1.5 assists and just .3 turnovers. This has allowed Minott to make a positive impact despite not shooting well from beyond the arc.
The Wolves declined Minott's team option this summer, paving the way for him to sign with the Celtics. It's easy to look at how well Minott is playing and blame the Wolves for giving up on him. Outside of some occasional spot minutes, he wasn't really given a chance in Chris Finch's rotation. However, the Wolves had a loaded rotation last year, and there was no room for Minott.
Amid a surprisingly sluggish start for the Wolves' defense, Minott's services could be used. Still, betting on Terrence Shannon Jr. and Jaylen Clark after Nickeil Alexander-Walker left was logical and could ultimately pay off.