Aging veteran is still key to Celtics chances

Horford's performance is nothing new to Celtics fans. They're used to the veteran stepping up in the big moments. He's done so repeatedly throughout his two tenures with the franchise. However, his performance on Tuesday was even more impressive due to his increasing age. 

Oftentimes, Horford's impact can go unnoticed. He works in the margins where the box score doesn't exist. His screen assists, deflections, secondary assists and box outs all play a role in the Celtics success, yet seldom get the recognition they deserve. Still, Horford continues to play his style of basketball; a style that has kept him in the league for close to two decades.

“He’s just an innate competitor,” Joe Mazzulla told the media after the game. “I don't think people realize that sometimes, because of how quiet a guy is, but he's an innate competitor, and he has an ability to inspire people around him.”

Due to Kristaps Porzingis' injury, Horford has been part of the Celtics starting unit over their first 15 games. Eventually, he must move back into a bench role where the coaching staff can manage his minutes and ensure he's fresh for the playoffs.

Still, until Porzingis returns to the rotation, Horford is an elite deputy, despite his age. Boston may have multiple star talents on its roster, but without Horford's continued leadership, the Celtics may never have made it to this point. He is a vital part of the rotation and a core piece in Mazzulla's championship puzzle.