2. An explanation of Al Horford
The Sixers’ decision to sign Al Horford to a four-year, $109 million contract was equal parts intriguing, concerning and exciting. There’s overt risk in paying a 33-year-old over four seasons, but Horford also brings a unique skill set and pedigree to the rotation.
No concrete role description has been given for Horford. We know he’s the starting four and the backup five. He will probably spend significant time staggered with Embiid, the goal being to keep at least one All-Defense center on the floor at all times.
Where the picture is less clear is on offense. The Sixers lack high-level shooting and shot creation on the perimeter, but Horford could provide a partial solution to both. He’s an efficient spot-up shooter, even if the volume’s low. He’s also a skilled passer who can locate open teammates from any angle.
The Sixers should use Horford as a playmaker often, whether it’s on the elbow, in the post, or on the short roll. Horford is an infectious ball mover who legitimately prioritizes team success over personal achievements, a cliche which applies more to Horford than any other top-30 NBA player.
Horford gives the Sixers size, but he also gives them finesse. He will make the game easier for teammates if Brown puts him in the right spots. There should be several questions about the specifics of Horford’s projected role in 2019-20.