Chowder and Champions
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The 2018-19 Boston Celtics four-way road to redemption

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MARCH 01: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics reacts during the second quarter against the Washington Wizards at TD Garden on March 01, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MARCH 01: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics reacts during the second quarter against the Washington Wizards at TD Garden on March 01, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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Boston Celtics Al Horford (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Boston Celtics Al Horford (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Above “average” Al Horford

Due to all the drama on and off the court, the one positive that has been overlooked is the play of veteran big man Al Horford.

As the sometimes forgotten star on the team, Horford has really stepped up his game offensively and defensively.

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Since the All-Star break, Horford is averaging 14.9 points and is looking great in the two-man game with Kyrie Irving.  Along with his ability to pass the ball, Horford makes the Boston Celtics a tough team to beat when he is playing at a high level.

With his health now being back to a point where he can compete at a physical level game-to-game, Horford recognizes himself that he is playing the best basketball he has players perhaps since he joined the team.

"“It’s fair to say I’m playing my best basketball of the year, probably since I’ve been in Boston, to be honest,” Horford told the media following the team’s win over the Los Angeles Lakers.  “I’m at a really good point in my career right now.  Just the way coach is using me, and I can bring to the team, I’m at my best right now.”"

For the Celtics to go far, Al Horford will have to consistently play at an All-Star level, especially with some of the teams and big men the team will have to face in the playoffs.

Joel Embiid, Marc Gasol, Brook Lopez are just three of the big men who come to mind.  Horford’s ability to defend and stretch the court offensively will help offset any disadvantage the team has in those potential matchups.

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