Horford was impressed as Kornet, Tillman, and Queta improved originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
Through the first four games of the preseason, Al Horford loved what he saw from his fellow Boston Celtics big men.
The veteran watched as Luke Kornet, Xavier Tillman, and Neemias Queta enjoyed outstanding performances. Kornet notched 15 points and eight rebounds in that of the team blowout win over the Philadelphia 76ers. Tillman shot 6-for-8 from 3-point range during his first three preseason games. Queta tallied 12 points and 15 boards in Sunday’s win over the Toronto Raptors.
Before taking the court for Tuesday’s preseason finale, Horford praised the trio for the strides they’ve made since last season.
“Just been very impressed, just with the improvements with them,” Horford told NBC Sports Boston’s Abby Chin. “I think they’re probably a little more comfortable. But Neemy (Neemias Queta) defensively looks really solid. Rebounds the ball really well. Xavier, really shoots the ball really well and seems to keep getting more comfortable with everything we’re trying do And Luke, just high energy, finishing really well at the rim and protecting the rim for us.
“Those are things we need him to do, but it’s just exciting when you see those guys really take another step. Even though it’s the preseason, you can already tell they’ve improved.”
Kornet, Tillman, and Queta are supposed to play a crucial role for the Celtics this season. Star big man Kristaps Porzingis is expected to be out until December or January after undergoing foot surgery in June. The 38-year-old Horford’s minutes will be closely monitored throughout the campaign.
If the Celtics big’s preseason performance translates to the regular season, it will be a major development for a team that already looks poised to repeat as NBA champions. Their title defense begins next Tuesday when the Celtics welcome the New York Knicks to TD Garden.
Watch Horford’s full one-on-1 interview with Abby Chin below, or on YouTube:
