Boston Celtics star Al Horford believes that Aron Baynes deserves more playing time and possibly a spot in their starting lineup moving forward. The veteran forward said that Baynes just makes their defense better based on how they played against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday.
Baynes had a surprise start against the Cavaliers. While he only scored four points in 25 minutes of playing time, Horford had nothing but praises for the 32-year-old center, saying that Baynes managed to show how smart he is, particularly on the defensive end of the floor.
“I just think that anything with Baynes works,” Horford said via Chris Forberg of NBCS Boston. “Just a very smart defender and you can literally put him out with anyone and I just feel like he makes our defense better.”
According to Nick Friar of Celtics Wire, Horford also insisted that the decision to start Baynes alongside him worked wonders for him. The All-Star forward has been playing at the five spot for the majority of the season alongside Marcus Morris. Horford said that Baynes helped him a lot by having an extra player who can protect the rim.
Horford had the chance to focus more on offense, as he finished with 19 points on 7-for-10 shooting. The 32-year-old superstar also added eight rebounds, five assists, and one block against the Cavaliers.
Baynes is averaging just 5.3 points and 4.2 rebounds in 15.1 minutes per game this season. His playing time is expected to increase heading into the playoffs, as head coach Brad Stevens appears ready to move forward with a bigger starting frontcourt in the postseason.
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