Overview
- In 18 minutes of his first preseason game at Memphis, Gonzalez posted eight points, three rebounds, three blocks and a steal in a 121-103 win.
- He set the tone with multiple early rim contests, a midcourt steal that he finished with a dunk, and a late chase-down block.
- Head coach Joe Mazzulla frequently pulled him aside for in-game instruction and later praised his professionalism and eagerness to learn.
- The Celtics anticipate opening his season in Maine for development, though sustained effort like this could accelerate NBA minutes.
- With Jayson Tatum rehabbing and few proven wings on the roster, Gonzalez’s physical poise during a brief dust-up with PJ Hall reinforced his readiness for contact.