Celtics, Al Horford on his return to Boston: “This is where I want to be”

Confined to a mentoring role for OKC youth after a failed experience in Philadelphia, Al Horford he has to give his career a final boost. Returned to Boston in exchange for Kemba Walker thanks to the new GM Brad Stevens, the Dominican is given a second chance in Massachusetts for his greatest happiness.

“First of all, I’m really, really happy to be back,” Al Horford begins. I really like the city of Boston. I know how special the city is and how special the franchise is for the city. I am happy to go back and finish what I started. It’s surreal to be back. I am grateful for this opportunity. This is where I want to be, ”says the 35-year-old pivot.

Without having played an NBA game since March 24, the former Sixer reassured his physical condition by specifically making sure he could play back to back. “Physically I feel fine. Oklahoma staff did a great job with me. I can’t wait to start working with the group. Nothing will hold me back. I think I can fill several more roles, but whatever the manager needs, I will do it. If they ask me to play as a pivot, that’s okay with me. “

With the arrival of Ime Udoka, whom he had worked with in Philadelphia, Horford wants to quickly integrate and forge ties to start the season right away. “Ime is a good guy. We had a good relationship, he was always very professional, “adds the hub for NBC Sports.” We spent a lot of time talking about defense and things we would like to work on. I can’t wait to see what it will bring and how it can help. our group”.