After undergoing some major changes this summer, the Boston Celtics are going to need some young players to step up next season.
One player in particular could see a major increase in on-court opportunity.
Hugo Gonzalez Given Promising Label Ahead of 2026-27 NBA Season
GettyBOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – DECEMBER 05: Hugo Gonzalez #28 of the Boston Celtics dunks and scores against the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half at the TD Garden on December 05, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images)
After a promising rookie campaign in which he averaged 3.9 points and 3.3 rebounds in 14.6 minutes per game, second-year forward Hugo Gonzalez could be in line for a larger role in his sophomore season following the departure of Jaylen Brown.
Gonzalez was recently named Boston’s “hidden gem” heading into the 2026-27 season by Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report. The Celtics drafted Gonzalez in the first round (28th overall) back in 2022, but he remained overseas until last season. His playing time was limited, but he flashed some real potential.
“A new-look Boston Celtics team is going to need a bigger dose of Hugo Gonzalez this season. The 6’6″ forward had some really nice moments as a rookie last year. He brings insane energy, rebounds at a high level and shot 48.4 percent from three over his final 19 games of the season,” Swartz wrote.
“Gonzalez is a strong, versatile defender who annoys opponents with his activity and intensity and will get a bigger opportunity offensively without Jaylen Brown. He’s going to be a really good role player in Boston for years to come.”
With a year in the league under his belt, it’s reasonable for the Celtics to expect a major step forward from Gonzalez in year two.
Hugo Gonzalez Turning In a Solid Offseason for the Boston Celtics
GettyLAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 16: Hugo Gonzalez #28 of the Boston Celtics poses for a portrait during the 2025 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot at UNLV on July 16, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
Gonzalez has been building off the momentum that he established for himself in his rookie year this offseason. He closed out Summer League was some impressive play that had his coaches singing his praises.
“He’s a pro,” Celtics assistant Amile Jefferson said of Gonzalez, “and I think he’s actually just a bigger guy. You saw it last season, putting him on team’s five, play him one through five, just whoever the best player is, because he can not only be physical, but he’s very mobile.”
It certainly seems like the opportunity will be there for Gonzalez next season. Let’s see if he can take advantage of it.
Former First-Round Pick Named ‘Hidden Gem’ for Boston Celtics