Celtics’ Al Horford Nominated for Teammate of the Year Award

BOSTON, Mass. — Boston Celtics forward Al Horford has been named one of 12 finalists for the 2023 Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year award, recognizing NBA players who exhibit exemplary leadership, mentorship, and selfless play.

Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla expressed strong support for Horford, stating, “It’s a no-brainer that he should get it. You can’t really put into words what he’s able to do. I mean, the respect that he has of the guys.” Mazzulla highlighted Horford’s competitiveness and ability to set a positive tone for the team. “He’s one of the best teammates and we’re lucky to have him,” he said.

Horford is competing against notable players including Houston Rockets center Steven Adams, Los Angeles Clippers forward Nicolas Batum, New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry, Detroit Pistons forward Tobias Harris, Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr., Indiana Pacers forward James Johnson, Denver Nuggets center DeAndre Jordan, Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez, Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell, and Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jaylin Williams.

The award was won last year by Mike Conley of the Minnesota Timberwolves, while Celtics guard Jrue Holiday is a three-time recipient, having won the award in 2020, 2022, and 2023.

Mike Budenholzer, who coached Horford during his time with the Atlanta Hawks, commended him for his high basketball IQ and selflessness. He remarked, “He’s just a super smart player. Selfless. Does anything to win.” Budenholzer noted Horford’s ability to create space for his teammates and contribute both inside and beyond the three-point line.

During a recent game, Kristaps Porzingis showcased his physicality, scoring 15 points and playing a crucial role in the Celtics’ defensive efforts. After taking an elbow to the face from Cody Martin, Porzingis was seen heading to the locker room with a bloody nose. Mazzulla praised Porzingis for his toughness and ability to attack the rim, saying, “I think he’s really embraced that on both ends of the floor.”

In G-League news, the Maine Celtics will face off against the Osceola Magic in the Eastern Conference Finals this Sunday in Florida. Maine guard JD Davison, who recently won the G-League MVP award, will be up against Osceola’s Mac McClung, the previous year’s MVP.

Mazzulla expressed optimism about the growth of Boston’s two-way players, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a winning mentality. “Just continue to play Celtic basketball and do what [coach] Tyler [Lashbrook] wants,” he advised the team.

Additionally, the Celtics hosted their second annual Autism Acceptance Night, with Mazzulla wearing custom sneakers featuring the rainbow infinity symbol, representing neurodiversity. This initiative is closely connected to his personal life, as Mazzulla is the godfather of a child diagnosed with autism. “It’s an important cause,” Mazzulla shared. “To be able to represent [Max] however I can is a great opportunity.”