dpHugo Gonzalez exceeded the expectations of a late first-round pick in his first year with the Celtics. The Spanish wing led all rookies in plus/minus and ranked second on the team in net rating despite being just 20 years old.
The stellar play put him in an unexpected position last month when the Celtics were pursuing Giannis Antetokounmpo with a trade package that included Jaylen Brown and multiple first-round picks. The Bucks reportedly were pushing for the inclusion of Gonzalez and Baylor Scheierman in the deal, something that Boston refused to do before Milwaukee agreed to a deal with the Heat.
Ahead of his first Summer League game Friday, Gonzalez spoke to reporters in Las Vegas about hearing his name in the rumor mill for the first time in Boston.
“It was tough but it’s something that when you come to the NBA, it can happen and something that you are exposed to,” Gonzalez said via CLNS Media. “Obviously, it’s a league where you can get traded all of a sudden. It’s something that, if you want to play here, you need to know.”
Brad Stevens’ decision to hold tight to Gonzalez wasn’t a huge surprise given how highly he spoke of the Spanish wing after Boston’s season came to a close.
“The reality is Hugo had a great rookie year and is, I think, a critical part of us moving forward,” Stevens said. “Because his athleticism can meet the moment in big games. That’s a real thing. You can see it. His strength is off the charts.
“He’s probably the strongest — he’s one of the strongest guys on our team, pound-for-pound, right now, as a 20-year-old. So, he’s got a bright future.”
Gonzalez is expected to play at least a couple games with the Summer League team in Las Vegas after playing for Spain in World Cup qualifying earlier this month.
Gonzalez also expressed deep appreciation for his time with Jaylen Brown after his veteran teammate was traded away to the 76ers last week.
“Well, first of all, Jaylen is a Celtics legend,” Gonzalez said. “Everybody, is really really grateful because of the things he has done. Especially for me, he has been an amazing veteran player. He’s been a leader for me. He’s been a role model. Everybody here is grateful for him.”
With Brown gone, Gonzalez could be in line for a much bigger role in Boston next year depending on what the future holds for new addition Paul George.
