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Al Horford is Defying Father Time and Elevating the Celtics 

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Al Horford has been very impactful for the Celtics.

Al Horford has been a key part of Boston’s success throughout his Celtics tenure. The 38-year-old big man’s longevity is impressive and under-discussed. Horford is the prototypical all-around center, which has allowed him to age gracefully. Over his last four games, Horford has been particularly impressive. Let’s dive into Horford’s recent stretch and his overall impact on the Celtics.

Al Horford is Defying Father Time and Elevating the Celtics

Horford’s Stellar Recent Stretch

Horford is especially valuable to the Celtics due to Kristaps Porziņģis‘ injury history. When fully healthy, they are also an ideal fit in double-big lineups. This season, Horford has started 35 out of 51 games, often starting in place of Porziņģis, who has played in 32 total games. Porziņģis has been sidelined with a mysterious viral illness for nearly two weeks. With Porziņģis out, Horford has stepped up massively. Over his last four games specifically, Horford is averaging 15.8 points, 9 rebounds, and 3.5 assists on 50/40/90 shooting splits.

This has included games against some of the NBA’s best, including the Oklahoma City, Denver Nuggets, and Los Angeles Lakers. Against the Nuggets, Horford was especially impactful he poured in 19 points, grabbed eight rebounds, and recorded three steals, he was also central in containing Nikola Jokić. In the Lakers game, Luka Dončić and LeBron James relentlessly attacked Horford. However, he held up exceptionally well posting a 33.3 defensive field goal percentage on the night, showcasing his defensive versatility and prowess. Overall, Horford contributed 14 points, nine rebounds, four assists, three steals and a block. During the Thunder game, Horford was one of the bright spots in an unfortunate loss. He racked up 18 points (six threes), 10 rebounds, six assists, two blocks, and a steal.

Horford’s overall has been incredible, he spaces the floor, rebounds, playmakes, and defends at a high level. This well-rounded skill set has been on full display recently. Over the last four games, Horford has a stellar defensive field goal percentage of 35.1. Horford’s recent stretch is an improvement from his overall season averages of 8.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2 assists on 41.9/36.4/89.3 shooting splits, and it comes at a time when the Celtics need him.

Horford is Perfect for the Celtics’ System

On both ends of the floor, Horford is an ideal fit for Boston’s style of play. Offensively, his floor spacing and playmaking abilities are perfect for the Celtics’ five-out ball-movement-heavy offense. Horford is one of the best stretch bigs in the league, more than doubles his shot attempts are threes. Additionally, he keeps the ball moving and can occasionally even be a playmaking hub.

Defensively, Horford is extremely versatile and sturdy. Big Al uses his strength and IQ to neutralize opposing players. This season, he has held Giannis Antetokounmpo to 44 percent shooting, Evan Mobley to 30, Karl-Anthony Towns to 37.5, LeBron James to 16.7, and Luka Dončić to 45.5. Horford is also a high-quality rebounder. Horford’s skill set helps the Celtics run a switch-heavy defensive scheme. The on/off numbers back up Horford’s two-way impact, he has a + 2.9 net difference, the Celtics are better with him on the court both offensively and defensively.

Tatum and Joe Mazzulla Praise Horford

After the win against the Lakers superstar Jayson Tatum and head coach Joe Mazzulla praised Horford’s impact. Tatum referred to Horford as the heart and soul of the Celtics. His connection with Horford has been well documented, Tatum has previously stated that Al is his all-time favorite teammate. Mazzulla spoke highly of Horford’s defensive impact and called him a hall-of-famer.

 

Both Tatum’s and Mazzulla’s statements highlight Horford’s impact on and off the court. Horford has played with the Celtics for seven seasons (two stints) and has an incredible 18 years of experience. He has been constantly credited as an amazing leader and mentor. Horford’s presence helps stabilize the Celtics and elevates players around him. Mazzulla’s comments about his defense are also spot on to be this versatile at 38 is incredibly impressive. Horford is a key part of the Celtics’ elite-level defense. Moreover, as a five-time All-Star, one-time (for now) NBA champ, and two-time college champ, Horford has a rock-solid hall-of-fame case, especially accounting for his longevity. There are rumors that Horford could retire after this season. However, it’s clear Horford still has a lot left in the tank and could continue playing. Ultimately, Horford’s all-around skill set is remarkable, and he continues to help the Celtics win at the highest level.

 

Photo credit: © Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

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