Boston Celtics Confirm Immediate NBA Plans for Drafted Hugo Gonzalez

The Boston Celtics selected 19-year-old Spanish forward Hugo Gonzalez with the 28th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, signaling their intent to bring him to Boston immediately rather than stashing him overseas. Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens praised Gonzalez's humility, team-first mentality, and competitiveness, noting his valuable experience playing for Real Madrid, a top EuroLeague team loaded with former NBA players. Stevens emphasized Gonzalez's willingness to accept any role and his need to earn playing time among seasoned professionals, likening the responsibility of wearing a Real Madrid jersey in Spain to that of wearing a Celtics jersey in the NBA. The Celtics made significant roster moves by trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis to save over $200 million in luxury tax penalties, creating salary flexibility to retain key players like Al Horford and Luke Kornet. Stevens highlighted the importance of these financial maneuvers for maintaining team flexibility and competitiveness moving forward. Overall, Boston is balancing financial strategy with developing young talent like Gonzalez as they aim to remain a championship contender.