As the buzz grew about a legendary player returning, a rookie took center stage during the matchup between the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks on Monday.
In a game that marked Bucks’ star Giannis Antetokounmpo’s return after more than a month, Celtics rookie Hugo Gonzalez delivered an impressive performance reminiscent of Larry Bird’s debut season, leading Boston to a 108-81 win.
While Antetokounmpo recorded his typical double-double with 19 points, his 38.9% shooting couldn’t match Gonzalez’s impact on the game.
Hugo Gonzalez excelled on both ends
The 20-year-old Gonzalez finished with 18 points, 16 rebounds, one assist, three steals, and two blocks. He shot 46.7% from the floor, hitting 7-of-15 attempts, including three from beyond the arc.