Most Sixers fans are expecting Al Horford to play the power forward position in the coming season. However, in a recent interview with Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia head coach Brett Brown hinted that he might utilize Horford as a backup center at times.
Horford will still serve as the Sixers' starting power forward, but Brown says the five-time All-Star could see some action at the 5 when Joel Embiid is not playing.
Brown said Al Horford will be the backup 5 in addtition to the starting 4. But the coach doesn’t expect to “burn down” the veteran player. So, at least early in the season, other players could get quality minutes. But look for Horford to start at the 5 when Embiid is out.
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) September 25, 2019
Horford signed with the Sixers on July 10, agreeing to the terms of a four-year, $97 million deal. By most accounts, he's an excellent addition, and general manager Elton Brand is happy to have such a talented player aboard:
Article Continues Below“We’re excited to welcome one of the NBA’s best frontcourt players in Al Horford to Philadelphia,” Brand told NBA.com after signing Horford. “He has built his reputation around hard work and a tradition of winning, which are the same qualities that have formed the foundation of the 76ers. Al’s playmaking, elite defensive talents and veteran leadership confirm why he is a crucial addition to our roster. We have gained a championship-level teammate that will not only complement our current makeup, but will help grow our young core as we strive for the highest level of success.”
Horford made 68 appearances with the Celtics last season (all starts), racking up averages of 13.6 points on 53.5 percent shooting from the field (36.0 percent from beyond the arc), 6.7 rebounds, 4.2 assists and just under one steal (0.9) in 29.0 minutes per outing.
The Sixers finished the 2018-19 regular season campaign with a 51-31 overall record, which earned the team a No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference Playoffs. Unfortunately, though, Philly was defeated by the Toronto Raptors in the second round, 4-3.