The Boston Celtics are set to kick off their two-week stint in Las Vegas on Friday afternoon with their NBA Summer League debut against the Memphis Grizzlies, airing at 4 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Boston. The Summer Celtics will participate in at least five games at the UNLV campus, giving fans an extended look at recent draftees and hopeful players striving for a spot on the roster.
With five of their top nine players from last season unavailable—Jayson Tatum recovering from Achilles surgery, Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis having been traded, Luke Kornet joining the Spurs, and Al Horford considering his future without Boston—the Celtics have plenty of minutes open for those eager to seize the opportunity.
Returning players Jordan Walsh and Baylor Scheierman lead a roster that also includes 2025 draft picks Hugo Gonzalez (28th overall), Amari Williams (46th), and Max Shulga (57th). Two-way forward Miles Norris will also participate in the Summer League.
1. Will HugoMania Ignite?
Jordan Walsh has already sparked excitement around Hugo Gonzalez. After a recent training camp in Brighton, Walsh remarked on Gonzalez’s hard work and hustle, saying, “He plays hard. Really hard. Fans will love him for that.” Gonzalez, who is seen as a mystery player after limited action with a veteran Real Madrid squad last season, is projected to play with a lot of energy. His performance in the Summer League could captivate Celtics fans as he competes against other aspiring players.
2. Will This Be Walsh’s Year?
Walsh had a forgettable showing in Vegas last summer, missing his first 22 attempts from three before finally gaining some rhythm. This year, he aims to showcase the progress he has made. After participating in 52 games last season, Walsh seeks to prove he stands out among this summer’s roster of players. With Gonzalez as the youngest on the team, Walsh, who won’t turn 22 until March 2026, has a chance to make a lasting impression.
3. A Strong Sophomore Season for Scheierman?
Joe Mazzulla isn’t typically inclined to rely on rookies, with Scheierman only logging 74 minutes before the All-Star break last season. Nevertheless, he seized his opportunities afterward, displaying impressive playmaking and reliable three-point shooting. As he heads to Vegas, Scheierman aims to replicate the hustle that endeared him to fans last season. With time running short before he turns 25, this Summer League could be crucial for him to secure a role with the main roster.
4. The Need for Amari
The Celtics face significant gaps in their frontcourt following the departures of Porzingis, Kornet, and Horford, losing over 4,200 minutes of playing time. Neemias Queta is the most seasoned returning big player, while Amari Williams, at 7 feet tall with a 7-foot-5 wingspan, brings defensive skills and rebounding ability. Williams’s performance in the Summer League will help determine if he earns a two-way contract for the upcoming season.
5. Insights into the 2025-26 Celtics Strategy
Brad Stevens recently mentioned the coaching staff’s experimental approach for the Summer League, promising innovative strategies not previously seen. This offseason’s acquisitions suggest a preference for players who engage actively and excel in off-the-ball movement. Observing how the team approaches defense and offense during the Summer League might give insights into their play style adjustments for the 2025-26 season.
