NBA: Former Boston Celtics Big Man Laments Reduced Role In Philly

Former Boston Celtics big man Al Horford does not look pleased on his apparent reduced role with the Philadelphia 76ers. After signing a four-year, $109 million deal to play in Philly last July, most expected to see Horford play a significant part for the team. But with almost half of the season having already played, the five-time All-Star still struggles to find his mark in the Brett Brown-coached squad.

“It’s not as good as I want to be,” Horford said as published by Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer. “I still haven’t been able to find my rhythm with the team.”

Upon his signing, the plan was to pair the Dominican Republic native with another All-Star big man Joel Embiid. Fast forward to 36 games later, the supposed elite frontcourt duo did not look as good as advertised.

Horford, now 33 and in his 13^th season, has been putting up subpar numbers across his name this year. His points average so far (12.6 per game) is his lowest in eight years, while his rebounding (6.6 per game) and field goal shooting rate (46%) are at a career-low.

“I’m out [there] for the team and doing what I can to help us,” Horford said. “But offensively, I’m very limited with the things that I can do. So I can’t control that stuff. So all I have to do is make sure I’m there for the team, trying to do everything I can to help us win.”

Being the humble professional that he is, Horford is not one who would hold grudge against Brown amidst the frustration. “Ultimately, we have to rely on [Brown] to make the decisions to put us in position to go out there and play and keep competing,” the 6’10 veteran said.

“It’s always an adjustment period when you are with a new team. Things don’t necessarily click how you want them to. It’s just a different challenge,” he ended.