Hugo González is playing a vital role off the bench this season with the Boston Celtics, and coach Joe Mazzulla believes the rookie is progressing well on the court.
González is averaging 3.8 points and 3.6 rebounds while shooting 32.5% from 3-point range in 51 appearances for Mazzulla entering their matchup on Tuesday, including two starts. He leads all players in the NBA in net rating (plus-17.2).
The 28th overall pick has made a significant impact as a reserve, averaging 15.1 minutes per game. He is providing a spark while impacting both ends of the court with his energy and effort, traits that have helped decide games for the Celtics.
“I think he is getting better and better,” Mazzulla said on Tuesday, via Justin Turpin of WEEI. “I think you saw the other night, he was really good. In the first half, I thought he changed the energy of the game. I think he has just continued to get better. Understand what his role is for us, understand how to do that every night. It is not an easy role to play, especially for the young guys. I think he is just continuing to get better with that.”
After playing sporadically to begin the year, González has appeared in every game for the team since Nov. 30. He scored in double figures six times, including a career-high 14 points and five rebounds on Dec. 4 in a win over the Washington Wizards.
The 20-year-old Spaniard earlier this season became the first Celtics rookie since Daniel Theis in January 2018 to haul in 10 or more rebounds in consecutive games. He was only the seventh Celtics rookie since 2000 to accomplish that feat.
González is establishing himself as a player Mazzulla can’t keep off the floor, based on his production in the second unit. He likely won’t be in the running for any end-of-season awards, but it is clear the team has identified a key rotational player for this year and beyond.
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Celtics news: Joe Mazzulla believes Hugo González is improving