The Boston Celtics' Daniel Theis made his debut in the NBA last season. Virtually an unknown name across the league, Theis became a quality big man for the Celtics before suffering a torn meniscus in a game against the Indiana Pacers. He underwent a knee surgery after that unfortunate night, abruptly ending his promising season.

After months of rehabilitation and therapy, Theis told A. Sherrod Blakely of NBC Sports Boston that he is already itching to play in the upcoming season.

“I’m getting there,” Theis told NBC Sports Boston. “I’ve been back two weeks. I’ve been doing new stuff every day.”

“I’m just happy to be back on the basketball court,” Theis said. “I’ve been working out the whole summer, lifting in the weight room when I wasn’t back home.”

The 6-foot-9 German forward has made his impact known by doing all kinds of things at both ends of the floor. In what could be his best career performance so far, he totaled 19 points, 7 rebounds, 2 blocks, 2 steals in just 21 minutes in a Celtics win against the Detroit Pistons. The team's top big man, Al Horford, provided his praises for Theis:

“He’s a winner,” said teammate Al Horford. “He’s playing like that, and those are the kind of guys that you want to have on your group.”

The 26-year-old cracked a consistent spot in coach Brad Stevens' rotation. Along with the do-it-all Horford, Theis gave the Celtics a stable and effective frontcourt presence on both offense and defense.

With Theis and Gordon Hayward ready to suit up again for the powerhouse team in the upcoming season, the Celtics are primed to get the 18th championship banner for the green and white.