It seems like just yesterday when the Sixers had a fully healthy roster, and had the option to move Al Horford to the bench. Up until that point, Horford’s struggles had been written off as a fit issue, and it seemed as though staggering his minutes with Embiid’s, as opposed to playing them at the same time, would solve the issue. As it turns out, that is far from the case.
With three of the starters out for an extended period of time during a tough west coast road trip, many expected the Sixers to struggle. It would almost be blind faith to predict anything else. But the one bright side we had to look forward to was seeing Al Horford in a role that would best fit his skill set. His response to this opportunity was to play his worst basketball of the season. After a decent enough showing against the Cavaliers, Horford has been nothing short of a disappointment in games against relevant teams.
All of the things that made Horford an appealing option in free agency have been non existent this entire season, specifically during this stretch. His low post offense has been sub par. His shooting, both from midrange and from deep, have been bad. His accurate passing, quick decision making, good shot selection and finishing have been non existent. His defense, which may have been the most eye popping part of his game, has been TERRIBLE.
He’s good for a block and a steal every now and then, but all season Horford has looked like it’s his first time playing basketball on the defensive end. He has gotten absolutely cooked by every matchup, and undrafted free agent Norvelle Pelle, Kyle O’Quinn and Mike Scott have frankly all held their ground defensively better than he has.
Not only has Horford not stepped up for the Sixers as they’ve become short-handed, he’s been one of the players keeping them out of games. It’s becoming more and more clear that if the sixers are going to make a playoff run, it will be in spite of Horford, not because of him.
Grad School Sports™ 