3 Celtics whose stock are skyrocketing, 2 that are dropping
By Tyler Watts
Stock dropping: Al Horford
Boston has six starters for five spots. Head coach Joe Mazzulla is wisely bringing Horford off the bench and limiting his minutes early on. The 37-year-old is a key piece for the Celtics, and the franchise needs him healthy when the games matter most. If that means playing him less in the regular season, everyone should be fully on board.
Horford is averaging just 5.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 0.5 blocks in 23.9 minutes each night through six games. He has struggled to hit shots and is on pace to set career lows in points, assists, and blocks per game. Horford has made just 38.2 percent of his field goal attempts and is shooting 25.0 percent from 3-point range.
The 6’9 forward has discussed his preference to start in years past, and it is likely no coincidence that his best game of the year came as a starter. Horford accepted his sacrifice for the team, but it has not been the ideal situation for his production.
Ultimately, Al Horford and the Boston Celtics want to win. They are doing just that so far and will adjust if the team struggles at any point. The 37-year-old will play significant minutes and have a crucial role in the playoffs. Expect Horford to deliver, regardless of what his regular season numbers look like at the end of the year.