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6 factors behind the Boston Celtics incredible turnaround

By Rob Greene

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - FEBRUARY 11: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics and Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics look on during the first half of a game against the Denver Nuggets at TD Garden on February 11, 2022 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 Malhotra/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - FEBRUARY 11: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics and Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics look on during the first half of a game against the Denver Nuggets at TD Garden on February 11, 2022 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 Malhotra/Getty Images) /
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Boston Celtics
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – OCTOBER 22: Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics dribbles downcourt during the Celtics home opener against the Toronto Raptors at TD Garden on October 22, 2021 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) /

6 factors behind the Boston Celtics incredible turnaround: Al Horford’s revival

Al Horford, again in green, is back to giving the Celtics the security he previously provided, and his role is now more clear and more established. Boston fans knew what he could bring to the table, but even after a slight revival season in Oklahoma City, many thought his age combined with some knee issues would end his career.

Horford began the season looking even better than he did when he signed with Boston in 2016. The five-time All-Star scored in double digits in 14 of his first 18 contests. He was rebounding and blocking shots at a level where he looked seven years younger.

After the hot start, however, Horford went through a tough December and a frustrating January. Despite this, the veteran would still fill the sheet at times while rebounding and being his usual elite self on the defensive side.

But with Dennis Schroder and Josh Richardson being shipped out at the trade deadline, Horford has become an even more crucial piece. “Playoff Al” is near.

In the last ten, he has put up 10.6 points, 7.6 boards, 2.7 assists, and 1.1 blocks while shooting 48.7 percent from the field and 39.4 percent from three.

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