Al Horford has been a starter for basically his entire NBA career. However, the Florida product is coming off the bench this season for the Boston Celtics, who are starting Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porzingis.
The 37-year-old Horford told Steve Bulpett of Heavy Sports that while coming off the bench is “different” for him, he’s always going to be ready to play.
“I respect the decisions that Joe is making, the way that he wants to go right now, and ultimately I want to win,” Horford said. “I’m always ready. I’m always prepared. This is something different for me. You know, I haven’t been in this position before. But right now I’m just going to continue to stay ready and do what I have to do.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Al Horford, Boston Celtics Updates
Horford put up eight points and seven rebounds in the Celtics’ first game of the season versus the New York Knicks in 25 minutes of action. The five-time All-Star struggled in Boston’s second game against the Miami Heat, going 0-of-6 from the floor in 24 minutes. Horford, though, did grab 10 rebounds.
“I love to play. I love the game,” Horford said. “I love the process. I just enjoy being part of a team and playing for something. I enjoy everything about it — the traveling, being with the guys — everything.”
The Celtics are expected to compete for a title this season after acquiring Holiday and Porzingis in the offseason. Horford won two championships in college, but he’s still looking for his first NBA ring.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Al Horford, Boston Celtics Updates
“Obviously that’s something that I want of course,” Horford said. “You play for that. But this is my profession, and I’m in a position now where I feel like I can have an impact and I can still play at a very high level. That’s my biggest thing. Obviously, yeah, I would like to win a championship, but I’m not going to keep playing just for something like that.”
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
Interested in reading the latest storylines and analysis in the NFL? Check out our partner NFL Analysis Network.
