Hugo Gonzalez has hit the ground running for the Boston Celtics. The Real Madrid product has showcased insane upside as a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions and anchor the point of attack.

Joe Mazzulla preaches defensive intensity as a core foundation of his overall system. He also welcomes players who bring physicality to the rotation. Therefore, it’s easy to see why Gonzalez, the 25th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has been such a big hit over the first seven games of his NBA career.

In a recent episode of the “Still Poddable” podcast , host Jay King of The Athletic labeled Gonzalez as the most important early-season development for the Celtics.

“Hugo, looking like a player that they can use right away, is more important than what Josh Minott has done,” King sa

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