The constant back-and-forth between big men Al Horford and Markieff Morris has been one of the lead characteristics of a very heated rivalry in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

But the Boston Celtics center isn't the least bit interested in displaying any of his toughness outside of the court, shutting out any talk about hard feelings between the two after he undercut Morris during Game 1 while trying to challenge an elbow jump shot.

Morris was asked a day prior to the game if he thought Horford had done it on purpose, to which he replied: “I don't know. I'll ask him tomorrow” in a very foreshadowing tone.

The Philly native was true to his promise and swung Horford into the front row while hustling for a loose ball.

Article Continues Below
Related News
Kristaps Porzingis photoshopped in Magic jersey. Include his jersey number.
Magic offseason trade proposal for Kristaps Porzingis as Celtics get finances in checkBailey Bassett ·
Jrue Holiday photoshopped in Kings jersey.
Kings offseason trade proposal for Jrue Holiday amid Celtics’ financial concernsBailey Bassett ·
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) during game three of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden.
NBA awards voter reveals $315M Jayson Tatum reason for giving up voteJulian Ojeda ·
The Boston Celtics bench in the final seconds of the game against the Sacramento Kings at TD Garden.
5 early Boston Celtics NBA free agency targets in 2025 offseasonRohan Brahmbhatt ·
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) and Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) talk after their game at TD Garden.
Damian Lillard shares photo with Celtics’ Jayson Tatum amid Achilles rehabsZachary Howell ·
Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) and forward Jayson Tatum (0) warm up before game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden.
NBA rumors: Shams promises Celtics trades as part of ‘craziest offseason ever’Jackson Stone ·

https://twitter.com/danecarbaugh/status/859561828304560129

“I'm not going to give him any more play,” Horford said Wednesday, according to ESPN's Chris Forsberg. “That's it. Again, I'm not going to give him the time of day.”

The Celtics defended their home court and have now won six straight games dating back to their first-round series against the Chicago Bulls. While it might take more work to put the Washington Wizards away on the road, “Big Al” has done his fair share of work, averaging 18 points, 10.5 rebounds, and six assists in the series.

The wrestling match between Horford and Morris will keep going throughout the series as both of these players can take it as much as they dish it out. But as for Horford, he'll be doing his pushing with his 6-foot-10 body, not with his mouth.