Double Vision: Celtics’ Al Horford keeps grinding

This space aims to identify players who represent good value for recording a double-double in a particular game. If they post double-digit totals in any two of the five main categories (points, rebounds, assists, blocks, steals), backers will at least double their money – and sometimes make much more than that.

The bet: A double-double for Celtics center Al Horford (+900 Barstool)

Emboldened by hitting a 9-1 shot on Michael Porter Jr. last night, we’ll take another big swing with Horford. The 16-year veteran is coming off a tough series against the 76ers in which he was asked to focus on defense, and he proved integral in containing league MVP Joel Embiid.

Horford reached double figures in points just three times over the seven games of the second round, but he posted at least 10 rebounds in each of the last two. He’s also capable of getting hot from behind the arc, as evidenced by having made multiple threes in 50 games this season. Despite his position and low-post role, he finished second in the league in three-point accuracy.  

The Celtics are facing the Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals for the third time in four seasons. They dropped the two previous openers, with Horford missing last year’s due to being in the health and safety protocols. But he recorded at least 13 rebounds in three of the six games he played.

A similar effort tonight could help reverse the trend – and give us more money to spend.