Celtics Players Praise Al Horford Following Historic Vintage Game 5 Performance

It's always a special occasion in the NBA when veterans turn back the clock, especially when it occurs during a pivotal series-clinching game.

Such was the case for Boston Celtics stalwart Al Horford, who, at 37 years old, delivered a vintage performance. His standout display propelled the Celtics to a commanding 113-98 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 5, securing the series win and advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals for the third consecutive year. Notably, Horford's performance at his age also earned him a place in the NBA record books.

Horford's Historic Night

Posted a 22-15-5 Stat Line In Game 5

Approaching his 38th birthday in June, Al Horford continues to defy age norms for the Celtics, maintaining a high level of performance whether he's in the starting lineup or coming off the bench.

In Game 5, he asserted his dominance against the Cavaliers' defense, tallying a double-double with 22 points and 15 rebounds, along with five assists, three blocks, and a steal. He shot an efficient 8-of-15 from the field.

Horford's standout performance was particularly impressive considering his recent struggles from beyond the arc in Games 3 and 4, where he went 0-of-10. He bounced back in Game 5, hitting six of his 13 three-point attempts, posing a significant challenge for Cleveland's perimeter defense.

Al Horford is the oldest player in NBA history with

15+ PTS
10+ REB
5+ 3P

in a playoff game. pic.twitter.com/1y9R07TMuh

— StatMuse (@statmuse) May 16, 2024

His outstanding performance also secured him a place in the record books. According to StatMuse, he became the oldest player in NBA history to achieve 15 or more points, 10 or more rebounds, and five or more three-pointers in a playoff game.

Horford concluded the series with averages of 9.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and a block per game. Celtics star guard Jaylen Brown lauded his veteran teammate for his pivotal contribution in Game 5, commending his resilience in bouncing back from shooting difficulties.

"I think he's been missing some shots the last few games. They've been trying to go at him. And tonight you saw his response. The closed out game, it was perfect," said Jaylen Brown.

When queried about Horford's capacity to meet the team's requirements during games, Derrick White offered a succinct response, as relayed by Celtics reporter Jared Weiss:

Derrick White: “Whatever the team needs, Al Horford will do (it).”

— Jared Weiss (@JaredWeissNBA) May 16, 2024

What's Next For Celtics

Await Winner of Knicks-Pacers

The Celtics have comfortably clinched their first two series in just five games each, affording them ample time to regroup and recuperate for the upcoming rounds.

They are eagerly anticipating the return of Kristaps Porzingis from injury, whose presence not only alleviates some of Horford's responsibilities but also adds a new dimension to their offense as they continue their quest for the NBA title.

Now in the Eastern Conference Finals for the third consecutive year, they await the outcome between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers. With the Knicks holding a 3-2 series lead, Game 6 is scheduled for May 17th at 8:30 p.m. If necessary, Game 7 will take place on May 19th at 3:30 p.m.