The Boston Celtics love Al Horford.
Following Boston’s disappointing elimination from the NBA playoffs on Friday at the hands of the New York Knicks, center Luke Kornet took a moment during his exit interview on Saturday to praise Horford.
In remarks reported by CLNS Media’s Bobby Manning, Kornet described Horford as “steady and reliable for the group … has such a high competitive character.”
Kornet went on to emphasize Horford’s broader significance, stating, “He’s obviously meant a lot to this team and to this franchise … an identity of the team, so much of it is him.”
Horford, who has spent nine of his 18 NBA seasons with Boston, will always be seen as the pivotal veteran leader of the Celtics’ 2024 title team.
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His versatility as a floor-spacing big man, combined with his defensive acumen and poise, has made him a symbol for the team’s excellence.
As the Celtics look ahead to the offseason, questions loom about roster adjustments. Horford is set to enter free agency and may consider retirement. Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday have uncertain futures with the team, according to many.
Horford’s role as the team’s heart and soul remains unquestioned, a fact Kornet was eager to highlight on Saturday.
For a franchise aiming to return to the NBA Finals in the near future, Horford’s competitive fire and steady presence will be vital moving forward if he stays aboard, or otherwise deeply missed if he chooses to walk away from the game.
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