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Boston Celtics draft pick Hugo Gonzalez reveals admiration for LA Lakers players in fan Q&A
Photo by Harry How/Getty Images

The Boston Celtics are one of the most interesting teams heading into the 2025-26 NBA season.

After Jayson Tatum’s unfortunate Achilles injury in the Eastern Conference semifinals, the Celtics’ front office decided to rebuild the team.

Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis were traded to the Portland Trail Blazers and the Atlanta Hawks, respectively.

The Celtics’ starting five, Derrick White, Anfernee Simons, Jaylen Brown, Sam Hauser, and Neemias Queta, now looks completely different from the 2023 championship-winning squad.

Another new addition to the team is shooting guard Hugo Gonzalez, the 28th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Gonzalez recently participated in a Q&A for Celtics fans to get to know him better, during which he mentioned two Los Angeles Lakers players

Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images

Hugo Gonzalez names LeBron James and Luka Doncic in Boston Celtics fan Q&A

Gonzalez named LeBron James as his favorite NBA player to watch growing up, which is common among players of his generation.

The Spaniard was then asked which player he’s most excited to compete against when the new season starts.

Gonzalez picked another Laker, Luka Doncic, probably because he also came through the Real Madrid academy.

The Celtics guard also explained why he has chosen to wear the number 28 on the back of his jersey. “Because I was picked with the 28th pick in the NBA Draft,” he said.

“I think 40, when I was playing in the low academy of Madrid at like 12/13 years old,” Gonzalez responded to another question about his career high.

EuroLeague legend thinks Boston Celtics fans will love Hugo Gonzalez

Real Madrid and Spanish basketball legend Rudy Fernandez had plenty to say about the Celtics prospect recently.

He explained why he thinks Gonzalez will not only succeed in the NBA but also develop an excellent relationship with Boston fans.

“Hugo is very smart, and that gives him a level of maturity beyond his years,” Fernandez said. “The NBA is tough, but the key for him will be to have patience and surround himself with people who can give him good advice and guidance.”

He continued: “I’m convinced they’ll form a special bond with him because he’s going to give everything he has in every moment of the game. And I know Celtics fans appreciate that.”

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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