Boston Celtics select Hugo Gonzalez with 28th pick in NBA Draft

In Spain, the Boston Celtics drafted 19-year-old wing Hugo Gonzalez from Real Madrid on June 25, 2025, with the 28th overall pick in the NBA Draft. Gonzalez, who stands at 6-foot-6 and weighs 205 pounds, demonstrated impressive athleticism and defensive capabilities during his time with Real Madrid, although he played a limited role in his 56 appearances. He averaged just over 10 minutes per game, raising concerns about his shooting ability, as he recorded a 29% shooting percentage last season. Despite these challenges, scouts believe his defensive fundamentals and energy could significantly benefit the Celtics' bench. The decision to draft Gonzalez comes in the context of the Celtics' search for young talent to enhance their roster. The team's lack of immediate draft-day trades indicates a commitment to developing Gonzalez instead of using him as a draft-and-stash option. His arrival in Boston for the 2025-26 season will present an opportunity to refine his shooting skills, particularly to adapt to Joe Mazzulla's three-focused offense. The Celtics' scouting team, led by Brad Stevens, has expressed confidence in Gonzalez's potential based on his strong work ethic and athletic upside. Gonzalez's basketball pedigree is notable, as both of his parents were professional basketball players in Spain, which contributes to his understanding of the game. He has represented Spain in various international tournaments and contributed to their success in the FIBA U17 and U18 competitions. This background suggests a deep-rooted familiarity with high-level basketball, which may serve him well as he transitions to the NBA. Experts have mixed assessments of Gonzalez's selection, with some viewing him as a steal while others remain skeptical of his readiness for the league. As the Celtics prepare for the upcoming season, they face challenges in filling gaps within their roster, particularly in the frontcourt following Kristaps Porzingis's trade to the Atlanta Hawks. The team's second pick in the draft, No. 32 overall, will be crucial in further shaping the lineup, with several potential candidates in the mix. In the eyes of analysts, Gonzalez’s selection may be a gamble but carries with it the possibility of future returns as a rotational player if he develops his shooting capabilities.