Alongside Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday, Al Horford is the big man of the Celtics victory in Game 3 in Indianapolis. Author of 23 points, 5 rebounds and 3 blocks, the Boston interior finished the game with a superb 7 of 12 3-pointers.
At almost 38 years old, Al Horford notches a personal record with his 7 successes, but also an NBA record. Never has a player this old scored so many 3-pointers in a playoff game. We can even add a third since it ties the record for a pivot, previously held by Nikola Jokic, Myles Turner and Naz Reid.
Of all these award-winning baskets, the most important is the one scored in “money time” on a superb behind-the-back pass from Jayson Tatum. Left alone in the corner, Al Horford punished.
“It was quite special because Jayson went towards the basket, he felt that he had a lane, and there, I don’t know how he did it, but he had to improvise…” says Al Horford. “Jayson kept doing the right thing, every time. It was an incredible move on his part, and at that point, for me, it was just about taking my time and putting in the work! “.
The “glue guy”
Holder in the absence of Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford is the totem of the team, this quiet force which allows us to weather storms, and to bounce back even when there are 18 points behind. “He was a great Al!” No matter what he does, he impresses with his leadership and his presence” explains Jayson Tatum. “He shoots, he protects the circle… and he’s the one who makes sure we stay together. »
Same analysis from Joe Mazzulla when asked how Al Horford made the difference. “By his composure” replies the coach. “When things weren't going well for us, we stayed together, and that's kind of our pillar. We were behind, on the outside, and Al's leadership and calm allowed us to return to normal. »
