​LAS VEGAS — The Celtics extended their Summer League winning streak to two with a 87-75 comeback over the Hornets on Monday, pulling away in the second half. Five Celtics reached double figures, led by Dillon Mitchell, a second-round pick who finished as the game’s top scorer with 24 points and also tallied six steals. John Tonje added 17 points in his second consecutive strong showing, and Hugo Gonzalez contributed 14 points as well.
Boston’s offense again began slowly, scoring only 17 points in the opening quarter. The team found its rhythm after the break, turning the game into a strong performance against a Hornets squad that featured several rotation players, including Ryan Kalkbrenner, Sion James, and Liam McNeeley.
With the win, the Celtics improved to 2-0 in Summer League play, remaining near the top of the standings. Boston is back in action on Monday, facing the Hawks at 6 p.m. ET.
In other context around the team this summer, betting markets have Boston at +490 to win the Eastern Conference next season, per FanDuel. A recent FanDuel Sportsbook review highlights how to navigate the platform, and here are four takeaways from Boston’s victory on Sunday night.
Hugo Gonzalez shook off a slow start to finish with 14 points, though his efficiency left room for improvement. The 20-year-old forward missed five of his first six shots—four of which came from beyond the arc—before rallying in the fourth quarter with a pair of baskets. He did finish with four turnovers, a reflection of handling pressure as he carried a heavier offensive load. Nevertheless, his playmaking and defensive effort (three steals) displayed flashes of the promise Boston has for him, and it wouldn’t be surprising if his Summer League stint nears its end soon, especially given his earlier World Cup qualifying duty with Spain this summer.
Dillon Mitchell’s performance was a standout example of his value. The second-round pick delivered the most complete game of any Celtic on the floor, mixing efficient shooting with aggressive aggression. He buried two instinctive three-pointers and didn’t hesitate to take open looks from the perimeter. Mitchell also contributed on the boards, grabbing five offensive rebounds, and anchored the defense with four steals and two blocks. His versatility across multiple facets of the court makes him an enticing prospect for Boston as he transitions from college basketball at St. John’s to the pro game.
John Tonje continued to press his case for a two-way spot on the Celtics’ roster. Now a free agent after completing his rookie season on a two-way deal with Boston, Tonje could be a candidate for the lone remaining two-way slot, as Amari Williams and Mitchell appear to have secured two of those positions for next season. Tonje’s performance on Sunday—following a strong debut—only reinforced his status as a potential contributor in the organization’s future plans, particularly if he can maintain his three-point shooting and continue to develop as a two-way guard.