Hugo Gonzalez is making the most of his increased opportunity with the Boston Celtics.
The 19-year-old rookie followed his 10-point, eight-rebound performance in Friday’s win over Miami with another gem Saturday in Toronto. He was an incredible +37 while notching 10 points, 10 rebounds, and two steals in the Celtics’ 112-96 victory.
Gonzalez played 28 minutes after logging 29 against the Heat. After Saturday’s win, NBC Sports Boston’s Abby Chin asked the Spaniard how he still had the energy to come up big for Boston.
“It’s what everyone told me, like, you can’t be tired because you’re 19,” Gonzalez said. “So I tried to bring the energy. … It’s easy to me to have great energy when the team is also helping and everyone is engaged on the game, and everyone wants the guy next to them to be successful.”
Gonzalez’s 10 rebounds marked a career high. He also tallied two steals in a performance that showcased his exciting potential.
“I just try to (do) whatever I can for the team, whatever they ask me to do,” Gonzalez added. “Obviously, sometimes it’s going to be good, sometimes it’s going to be worse, but you have to be mentally prepared to make a play, to be useful for the team.”
The youngster’s huge night came at a perfect time for the C’s with star Jaylen Brown (illness) sidelined. Payton Pritchard also stepped up, erupting for a game-high 33 points with 10 assists and seven rebounds.
At only 19 years old and just 22 games into his NBA career, Gonzalez already looks outstanding on the defensive end. His offensive game continues to improve as well, as he’s shot 62.5 percent from the floor so far in December.
Gonzalez will look to continue his hot streak when the Celtics (17-11) host the Indiana Pacers (6-22) Monday night.