Warriors get early look at Horford’s fit in preseason win over Lakers
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Al Horford’s first appearance in a Golden State uniform offered an immediate payoff, giving the Warriors a spark in Sunday’s preseason victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. The 39-year-old center finished with three points, four rebounds, three assists, three blocks and a steal in 14 minutes, helping the team post a plus-13 margin during his time on the floor.
“Obviously he has a high IQ,” Stephen Curry said after the game. “An experienced, championship-caliber player that can fit with any lineup out there. He gives us space, he gives us presence on the defensive end.”
Horford entered early after Moses Moody collected three quick fouls and is still expected to open the regular season as the starting center, according to head coach Steve Kerr. The team plans to mirror the Celtics’ strategy from last year, when Horford was limited to 60 games and held out of the second night of back-to-backs.
“We have to preserve all our older guys as best we can to have them ready for the playoffs,” Kerr said. “But no question, he’s still got it.”
Veterans held to light minutes
Kerr restricted his top players to 15 minutes or fewer in the preseason opener. Curry, Draymond Green, Jimmy Butler and Horford all exited by halftime. Curry looked in mid-season form, scoring 14 points on 5-of-7 shooting and knocking down three shots from beyond the arc.
The Warriors started the night with a small lineup featuring Green at center, though Kerr told reporters that alignment is not necessarily a preview of the regular season rotation.
Butler embracing full training camp
Butler, acquired at last season’s trade deadline, said having a complete offseason and training camp should make a noticeable difference.
“I get to do this thing from Day 1,” Butler noted. “We’re so happy to be able to compete with one another and do what we set out to do—win a championship.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
