Al Horford's Dominant Preseason Debut Shows How He Elevates Golden State Warriors

Golden State Warriors center Al Horford, 39, delivered a strong preseason debut against the Los Angeles Lakers, demonstrating his ability to elevate the team. Playing 14 hyperactive minutes off the bench in a 111-103 win, Horford scored 3 points (a triple), added 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks, and 1 steal, finishing with an impressive plus-13. Coach Steve Kerr praised his "size and the shooting ability, passing ability," highlighting his high basketball IQ and perfect defensive rotations. Stephen Curry noted Horford's "high IQ" and "championship-caliber" experience, emphasizing his fit with any lineup, providing space and defensive presence. Despite his age, Horford's performance rendered it irrelevant, and he is projected as the likely starting center and a key part of the finishing lineup. The Warriors plan to manage his minutes, similar to his 60 games last season with the Celtics, to preserve him for the playoffs.