Celtics Fall to Hawks in Summer League Action
The loss brings the Celtics’ record to 2-1, while the Hawks remain undefeated at 3-0. Following a successful start to their Las Vegas run, the Celtics struggled with depth and consistency in their third game in four days. Head coach Amile Jefferson noted that the team’s energy wavered when reserves entered the game, particularly during a second-quarter stretch where the offense stalled and Atlanta outscored Boston 23-11.
Absences Impact Celtics Rotation
The Celtics played Monday’s contest without Hugo Gonzalez and Amari Williams, two key players who contributed to the team’s earlier victories. Their absence forced the coaching staff to rely more heavily on the team’s bench. According to team observations, the lack of a “veteran” presence from the pair of second-year players was evident as the Celtics’ offense struggled to maintain momentum. While Gonzalez and Williams’ performances in Las Vegas are not expected to reflect the final roster composition for October, their absence highlighted the current team’s reliance on their established talent. Reports indicate that Gonzalez may be finished for the Summer League, as he previously competed for Spain in FIBA competition and has not had a full offseason.
Rookies Gain Valuable Experience
Despite the loss, the performance of Boston’s rookies remained a focal point. First-round pick Chris Cenac Jr. led the Celtics with 16 points, five rebounds, and four blocks. While Cenac showed signs of growth in the second half, he also recorded five turnovers. Second-round pick Dillon Mitchell also continued to show progress, finishing with 11 points, four rebounds, and two assists. Mitchell, who entered the draft with concerns regarding his outside shooting, has demonstrated improved mechanics and confidence in Las Vegas. Against the Hawks, Mitchell successfully made three of his four jump shot attempts. “I always just try to make winning plays,” Mitchell said following the game. “In this case, they want me to be comfortable and confident, and shoot the ball along with all the other things I do as well.”
Coaching and Development Challenges
The game served as a rigorous test of discipline for the young squad, with the team committing 18 turnovers against 18 assists. Coach Amile Jefferson emphasized that the grueling schedule is a necessary part of the development process for players adjusting to the NBA. “Sometimes things don’t go your way. Sometimes you can’t make a shot,” Jefferson said. “And at the end of the day, can you lean on your habits and on the effort and on competitive spirit?” Jefferson, who previously played for the Celtics and served as an assistant at Duke, has utilized the Summer League as a growth experience for himself as well, practicing late-game management, timeout usage, and challenge scenarios. The coaching staff has also received support from Celtics guard Derrick White, who was present on Sunday to assist on the sidelines.
Looking Ahead
The Celtics have one final game remaining in their Las Vegas schedule. ET. For the young players on the roster, the focus remains on physical conditioning and maintaining the right mindset as they navigate the remainder of the league’s condensed schedule.
Celtics Summer League Performance Summary
| Metric | Performance Data | | :— | :— | | Game 3 Result | Lost 102-90 vs. Atlanta Hawks | | Celtics Record | 2-1 | | Cenac Jr. (Game 3) | 16 points, 5 rebounds, 4 blocks, 5 turnovers | | Mitchell (Game 3) | 11 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 turnovers | | Team Stats (G3) | 18 assists, 18 turnovers |
Find more reporting in our Sport news section.
