Al Horford: Man in the Middle

[jonathanlambert33]

Without question, Al Horford is one of the best 25 players in the NBA. He can score efficiently, defend all over the floor, rebound on both ends, and pass and handle the ball like a guard. He does all of these things at such an exceptional level that he is a mismatch against nearly every team in the NBA.

Despite that versatility, many veteran basketball watchers still want to pigeon-hole the 6-foot-10 Horford as a power forward instead of a center because of his size. “Power forward is his natural position” is what is often said in this argument.

One that thing often gets buried in that argument is the type of center that people would put next to Horford. “Horford would be great with a rim-protecting type of center” is among sentiments that are heard a lot.

And that line of thought is not necessarily wrong. Horford would be GREAT playing next to a center like Marc Gasol or Roy Hibbert. These players possess unique talent and Horford is a good enough talent that is assumed that he would be great next to these guys.

However, a lot of Horford’s success at center comes from the disadvantages he forces on his opponents; Horford is quick, he runs the floor well, he’s strong, and he’s exceptional at spacing the floor. Because of these attributes, a team can put any type of power forward next to him and the team will likely be better off because of it. For example, both Josh Smith and Paul Millsap have excelled as Horford’s pair because of the space he provides.

Is that true if you put Horford at power forward, though? Sure, Horford will still be a great player because of the talent he possesses. But in most cases, it likely would not be the most optimal option for the team of Horford’s employ.

 
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[bosoxlover12]

If you wanna make the world a better place, take a look at yourself, and make that change

 

[$tunna]

If you wanna make the world a better place, take a look at yourself, and make that change

 

 

[bosoxlover12]

:duhfuck:

MJ son. The title.

 

[$tunna]

MJ son. The title.

 
I definitely knew the MJ reference lol I just didn't pair it with the title haha