The Celtics have taken a cautious approach with Al Horford throughout the preseason, but he got significant playing time on Tuesday night, as noted by Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe.
It was Horford’s first game since the NBA Finals, and the 38-year-old veteran spent 23 minutes on the court during a loss to the Toronto Raptors.
Although Horford has been participating in scrimmages and conditioning drills since the start of training camp, head coach Joe Mazzulla chose to withhold him from live game action until Tuesday.
“I saw he got great looks, he rebounded, he was in the right place defensively,” Mazzulla said. “He communicated. He was solid.”
Keeping Horford healthy is vital, especially with Kristaps Porzingis still recovering from offseason surgery on his left leg. The Celtics haven’t provided an official timeline for Porzingis’ return, but it’s expected to be no earlier than December.
While Horford only shot 1-for-6 from the field on Tuesday, he was glad to be back on the floor.
“I felt good, it felt good just to be out there, part of a game, and get a feel back for it,” Horford said.
“I’m pretty happy with being back. I think I’m in a good place (physically). The good thing is we have a week until we start (the season) so I’ll continue to prepare and be in a better place.”
Atlantic Notes: Horford, C. Thomas, Hayes, George https://t.co/xglw1JSYlV pic.twitter.com/08699eKpj3
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) October 17, 2024
