Breaking News: I wonder whether the supposed free agency target for the Boston Celtics can have an Al Horford-like…

Analyst wonders if rumored Boston Celtics free agent target can have Al Horford-like comeback One observer questions whether one of the Bost

on Celtics’ suspected free agent targets may stage a return similar to that of Al Horford.

If the 34-year-old Blake Griffin can return to form after a layoff, Celtics Wire’s Justin Quinn thinks he’s a worthy acquisition as a free agent to take up the team’s 15th roster slot.

“At the start of the 2023-24 season, there was speculation Griffin might be up to return later in the season so he can spend more time with his family (and save wear and tear on his body),” Quinn began by stating, “If that speculation proves correct, we’ve seen what a well-rested Griffin can do — and with an Al-Horford-in-OKC-type break to go with it, a late-season signing with all his veteran savvy could accomplish much of the non-regular season aspects of what Boston still lacks.”

In the end, nevertheless, Quinn thought that With Horford and Kristaps Porzingis’ sporadic availability in the frontcourt, depending on Griffin was a hazardous move.

“This seems quite far from something to depend on — especially as the minutes pile up on the legs of Boston’s non-iron man frontcourt players,” wrote Quinn.

The Boston Celtics have to think about acquiring several big players.
On the C’s cap sheet, there are several non-guaranteed contracts that can be canceled before the beginning of the 2024 calendar year without incurring penalties. It is simple to cut bait and find replacements for players like Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk, who is primarily a shooter but is shooting sub 30% from the 3-point line, and Lamar Stevens, who struggles to find the floor.

Given how much his rebounding and defense suffer when he plays, even Luke Kornet would be worth replacing.

The Celtics would be well served by adding two big men, Griffin and a younger, more defensively oriented player maybe. The front staff can also locate a veteran to step in for Payton Pritchard, whose progress has stalled since he inked a long-term agreement in the summer.

Al Horford holding down the fort for Boston Celtics in Kristaps Porzingis’ absence

Al Horford leading the Boston Celtics while Kristaps Porzingis is away

Al Horford is the Boston Celtics’ player and the arch-enemy of Father Time. Against the Philadelphia 76ers, Beantown’s most adored big man honored TD Garden with a memorable performance.

Horford scored a season-high 20 points on only nine shots in a 125-119 victory at home. In addition to shooting 7 of 9 from the field and 2 of 4 from three, the experienced Dominican player also pulled down six rebounds, two blocks, and a steal.

Horford stuffed Tobias Harris twice in the span of two seconds to earn his two rejections at a pivotal moment early in the fourth quarter. His forceful blows caused a boisterous Boston crowd to rise, giving the C’s much-needed momentum.
As writer Taylor Snow of the Celtics put it, “Al Horford is an absolute monster.” Horford is 37 years old, and he’s still got it, his game maturing like a good wine. The five-time All-Star has continued to be one of the finest defenders in the NBA, and his versatile skill set ideally matches Boston’s players.

When defending this season, Big Al has limited opponents to 40.0% shooting. Horford is second in defensive field goal % among eligible players, just behind Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who each night defends ten or more field goals. Horford only lets 5.4 makes per game while guarding 13.5 attempts each game.

Due to a left calf injury, star center Kristaps Porzingis has already missed three straight games. Horford has taken advantage of this chance to lead Boston’s frontcourt. The Godfather, the lone big man for the Celtics, has been a fantastic offensive player in addition to serving as the team’s defensive cornerstone in the paint.

Horford has significantly improved his scoring and rebounding totals in three games sans the 7’3″ Porzingis. Horfordhas played in three games, averaging 14.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists. In addition, he has averaged 2.3 blocks and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 40% from three and 64% from the field.

When questioned about Horford’s ability to play both as a starter and a reserve this season, head coach Joe Mazzulla reportedly gave him high marks, according to Boston Celtics writer Bobby Manning.In a nutshell, Horford has carried the Celtics through everything without Porzingis. It is hardly surprising that he has a team-high +45 plus-minus over the previous three games. Without his Latvian partner in the game, Horford has gone into “beast mode,” displaying everything from exquisite shot-blocking to exceptional sharpshooting.

Horford discussed the straightforward secrets to his consistent performance with NBC Sports Boston’s Abby Chin following the 76ers victory.

As was to be anticipated, Horford’s discussion of his solo play was reserved. The success of his teammates and the Celtics’ ability to compete and advance are the two things that matter most to the captain of the locker room. Horford has a great defensive and all-NBA resume, but he also exudes a refreshing humility that never seems to compromise his confidence.