The Boston Celtics have looked like the most complete team during the 2024 NBA playoffs as they’ve moved quickly through their opponents in the first two rounds.
First, the Celtics dispatched the Miami Heat in the first round in five games though the latter was shorthanded without Jimmy Butler.
In the Eastern Conference semifinals, Boston needed just five games to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers who were also missing key players like Donovan Mitchell.
Regardless of their opponents’ health, the Celtics have continued to execute their game plans nearly to perfection which is why they’re the clear favorites to represent the Eastern Conference in the NBA Finals.
Boston’s also missing a key piece in Kristaps Porzingis, who has been nursing a calf injury he suffered against Miami.
Al Horford has been starting in his place and has helped the Celtics continue to dominate, via StatMuse.
“Al Horford this playoffs: — Oldest player remaining — Leading the postseason in +/-, Timeless,” StatMuse tweeted.
Al Horford this playoffs:
— Oldest player remaining
— Leading the postseason in +/-Timeless. https://t.co/ytmmtoTfnY
— StatMuse (@statmuse) May 18, 2024
Horford may be 37 years old, but he has a clear understanding of his role on the Celtics as he’s kept the team even-keeled on both sides of the floor.
The veteran big man may not be the same offensive force as Porzingis is, but he can adequately space the floor and provide some strong defense on the interior.
With Porzingis set to miss the first two games of the next round, Horford will be called upon to fill in and continue to do what’s been asked of him.
Once the Celtics are fully healthy again, it’ll be hard for any team to beat them in a series.
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