Hugo González opened his preseason campaign with 15 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 asistencias in a 113-124 victory for the Boston Celtics against the Cleveland Cavaliers, according to Mundo Deportivo. The 20-year-old forward shot 5-of-9 from the field and 3-of-6 from beyond the arc in 26 minutes of action as a starter, establishing an early offensive footprint that contrasts sharply with his rookie usage.
During his rookie season, the coaching staff limited González primarily to spot-up corner shooting and off-ball screen setting. In this opening test against Cleveland, however, the Spanish wing showcased enhanced ball-handling, aggressive drives off the catch, and a polished eurostep. Defensively, he accepted assignments across multiple positions, matching up with players ranging from 6-foot-3 Sam Merrill to 6-foot-11 Evan Mobley.
For Mario Hezonja, the preseason matchup marked a quiet return to the NBA after five seasons playing in Europe. The 31-year-old forward contributed 5 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists in 17 minutes off the bench for the Cavaliers, shooting 2-of-7 from the floor and 1-of-2 from three-point range. Hezonja signed a one-year deal with Cleveland carrying a base salary of 1.6 million euros net, leaving behind a 2.6 million euro net offer from Real Madrid to pursue a second stint in the North American league.
Cleveland’s front office and coaching staff face a crucial evaluation window with the Croatian veteran, whose contract remains non-guaranteed until November 15. Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson has expressed confidence in Hezonja’s potential impact within a roster anchored by Donovan Mitchell, who contributed 11 points in the preseason opener. James Harden did not play in the contest.
Boston played without Jayson Tatum, leaving center Luka Garza to lead the Celtics with 22 points. José Manuel Calderón serves as the assistant general manager for Cleveland this season.
The Cavaliers continue their preseason schedule ahead of the regular-season roster cut-off date on November 15.
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