Sun Oct 13 01:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Celtics Veteran Al Horford Ready to Return for Preseason Games

**BOSTON** – After sitting out the first two preseason games in Abu Dhabi, veteran center Al Horford is set to return to the Boston Celtics lineup for at least one of their upcoming preseason games at TD Garden.

Coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed Horford will be “ramping up” his minutes, suggesting he might play in both of the weekend games against the Philadelphia 76ers. The 38-year-old, who played a key role in the Celtics’ championship run last season, will be managed carefully to ensure he’s ready for the regular season.

Horford’s minutes are expected to be closely monitored throughout the year, especially after his impressive performance last season where he averaged 8.6 points and 6.4 rebounds in 33 starts. His presence will be crucial early on, as Kristaps Porzingis recovers from offseason leg surgery.

While Horford has proven effective both as a starter and coming off the bench, Coach Mazzulla remained tight-lipped about his plans for the veteran center’s role.

“We just have to make that decision, whatever we think is best for the team at the time that we’ll do,” he said. “And it’s a credit to him that he’s open-minded enough to know that. He’ll just do whatever’s best for the team.”

The Celtics will play three preseason games over four days starting Saturday before enjoying a week of rest before their season opener against the New York Knicks on October 22nd.

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