On Saturday night, the Boston Celtics faced off against the Los Angeles Lakers in what remains one of the most iconic and high-profile matchups in sports. As always, both teams left everything on the court, but it was the Celtics who came away with a commanding 111-101 victory. Following the win, head coach Joe Mazzulla highlighted the outstanding performance of veteran big man Al Horford.
The Lakers aggressively targeted Horford, sending their top scorers—LeBron James and Luka Doncic—straight at him, trying to exploit their speed advantage. However, isolating Horford didn’t work as well as Lakers head coach JJ Redick had likely envisioned. Instead, Mazzulla thoroughly enjoyed watching the 37-year-old rise to the challenge.
“It motivates him. When people try to attack him, it just fuels him even more,” Mazzulla said of the Lakers’ strategy. “And I got to watch five straight possessions of him defending at a high level. At one point, I wasn’t even coaching—I was just watching him. And I thought, ‘Man, this guy’s a future Hall of Famer.’ I get to witness this for free. You have to appreciate that perspective. He’s just an innate competitor, and his energy inspires our team.”
The five-time All-Star filled the stat sheet with 14 points, nine rebounds, four assists, three steals, and a block. He also posted a +16 plus-minus rating, the second-highest of any player in the NBA game.
Jayson Tatum on Horford’s impact
Jayson Tatum, who had a monster performance with 40 points, 12 rebounds, eight assists, two steals, and a block, also praised Horford for his defensive effort. The veteran big man held his own against both James and Doncic throughout the game, playing a crucial role in Boston’s victory.
“Al is one of a kind,” Tatum said in his postgame press conference. “He’s the anchor of our defense and the heart and soul of our team. He keeps us emotionally steady. What he’s still able to provide in year 18 is remarkable. I don’t think that gets talked about enough—being such an integral part of a championship-caliber team at this stage of his career. We wouldn’t be who we are without him.”
Tatum reflects on the game
Tatum logged a season-high 45 minutes to help seal the victory, especially when the Lakers mounted a furious comeback. Boston’s once 22-point lead had dwindled to just four with 5:06 remaining in the fourth quarter. Despite the exhaustion, Tatum knew he could rely on his teammates—especially Horford.
“What he brings on the defensive end gives us confidence,” Tatum explained. “We trust him to switch, guard his man, and make things difficult on whoever he’s defending—knowing we’re all on the same page behind him. We don’t worry about who Al is guarding.” Tatum then capped his comments with a heartfelt statement. “I’m the biggest Al Horford fan there is,” he said. “I love that guy.”