Al Horford, the oldest player remaining in the 2024 NBA playoffs, delivered a historic performance on Wednesday night, leading the Boston Celtics to a 113-98 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. This win secured a 4-1 series victory for the Celtics and advanced them to their sixth Eastern Conference Finals in the last eight years.
Al Horford Historic Performance:
Horford’s final stat line was nothing short of remarkable: 22 points on 8 of 15 shooting (6 of 13 from three-point range), 15 rebounds (seven offensive), five assists, one steal, and three blocks.
Players in NBA playoff history with at least 10 rebounds, 5 three-pointers, 5 assists and 3 blocks.
Al Horford, tonight
No one else.— Dick Lipe (@DickLipe) May 16, 2024
Record-Breaking Achievement:
According to NBC Sports Boston statistician Dick Lipe, Horford became the first player in NBA history to record at least 10 rebounds, five three-pointers, five assists, and three blocks in a playoff game.
Players in NBA playoff history with at least:
- 10 rebounds
- 5 three-pointers
- 5 assists
- 3 blocks
Al Horford, Game 5
No one else.
Horford also became the second-oldest player in NBA history to achieve at least 20 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in a playoff game, trailing only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who had a 30-17-8 game against the Celtics on May 30, 1985.
Al Horford is the first player in NBA history with
20+ PTS
15+ REB
5+ 3P
3+ BLKin a playoff game (he’s the oldest player left in the playoffs). pic.twitter.com/QijuEWtiiQ
— StatMuse (@statmuse) May 16, 2024
Key Moments:
- First Half: Despite being dared to shoot by the Cavaliers, Horford persevered, going 3 of 8 from beyond the arc.
- Second Half: Horford improved his performance, hitting 3 of 5 three-pointers, including a crucial shot in the final minute to seal the game.
Al Horford Impact:
Horford’s exceptional game came at a crucial time, with Kristaps Porzingis sidelined due to a calf injury and the Celtics’ offense struggling in the first half. His leadership and energy provided the spark the team needed.
Coach Joe Mazzulla’s Praise:
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla lauded Horford’s contributions, highlighting his passion and competitive nature.
“Tonight you saw his gift,” Mazzulla said. “His gift is passion, inspiration, toughness, competitive nature. That’s who Al is as a person. I thought he was tremendous. He started it for us, and all the guys responded to it. I’m honored to coach him.”
Looking Ahead:
The Celtics will face either the Indiana Pacers or the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Knicks currently hold a 3-2 series lead over the Pacers, with Game 6 scheduled soon.
Horford’s historic performance and the Celtics’ collective effort have set the stage for an exciting Eastern Conference Finals, as they continue their quest for an NBA championship.
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