Gonzalez Impresses in Debut as Celtics Juggle Rotation and Future Decisions
SLUG: gonzalez-impresses-celtics-rotation-future-decisions
Rookie forward Hugo Gonzalez made a strong first impression in Friday’s loss to the Knicks, injecting energy on both ends after entering midway through the opening quarter. Head coach Joe Mazzulla tasked the 19-year-old with guarding New York star Jalen Brunson and kept him on the floor for extended second-half minutes as Boston attempted a comeback.
“Stepping on the floor was good,” Gonzalez said. “But still, I’m not having a great memory of this day because we lost the game that we could have won.”
Mazzulla praised the rookie’s effort, noting that Gonzalez “has a clear understanding” of a role built around high-level defense and hustle. The Madrid native saw limited court time last season with Real Madrid but could carve out a regular bench spot as a defensive stopper.
Rotation Still in Flux
The Celtics are experimenting with combinations early in the season. Gonzalez, fellow rookie Baylor Scheierman and second-year wing Jordan Walsh all appeared in the first half against New York, while forward Josh Minott — who played on opening night — did not see the floor.
Simons Reacts to Billups Arrest
Guard Anfernee Simons, traded to Boston this summer after four seasons under Chauncey Billups in Portland, expressed shock over his former coach’s arrest in a federal illegal-gambling investigation. “I have a great relationship with Chauncey,” Simons said in a postgame interview. “It’s an unfortunate situation for him and his family.”
Shooting Struggles for Key Players
The Celtics need improved production from their top trio while Mazzulla fine-tunes the rotation, according to The Boston Globe. Through two games, Payton Pritchard is 2-for-14 from three-point range, Derrick White is 7-for-24 beyond the arc and 12-for-38 overall, and Jaylen Brown has committed seven turnovers.
Scheierman Option Decision Nears
Boston is expected to pick up Scheierman’s $2.7 million team option for the 2026/27 season before the Oct. 31 deadline, reports MassLive’s Brian Robb. The final year of the rookie’s scale deal, set to pay nearly $5 million, will require a separate decision next offseason.
Tatum Recovery Timeline
Robb also estimates that Jayson Tatum, rehabbing from an Achilles tear, may not realistically return until March.
Source: Hoops Rumors
