Philadelphia 76ers: A 2019 Christmas present for every player

Al Horford — Fresh legs

We have never seen Al Horford in this role before. For the first time in his career, Horford is a floor-spacer first and foremost. He’s still a witty passer, a viable post-up threat, and a talented mid-range scorer, but given Philadelphia’s personnel, Horford is spending more time on the perimeter than ever before.

The symptoms of such a role change are obvious. His percentages are down, and his production not quite as noteworthy. Rather than a Boston offense that used Horford as a central, stabilizing force, he’s now a secondary piece in a Philadelphia offense centered on two contrasting players.

Nonetheless, Horford began the season strong and has given the Sixers a significant boost on defense — most notably when Embiid sits. The logic behind Elton Brand and the front office’s decision remains clear. Horford can help the Sixers win the non-Embiid minutes.

Recently, Horford has lagged behind just a bit. In part due to injury, the 33-year-old has looked a step slow on defense, which hurts most when he’s stationed at power forward. He has also been wayward from three-point range, shooting 21.1 percent from deep over his past five contests. He’s getting up there in age and will always need built-in rest. For now, the Sixers can hope for fresher legs.