Boston Celtics big man Al Horford continues to defy the odds as he is in the midst of his 18th season in the NBA. For the past few years, some have wondered if Horford was preparing to call it quits. His Oklahoma City Thunder stint in 2020-21 was riddled with DNPs, and going out on top as a champion last season is something you see in movies. However, the 38-year-old is still going strong with few signs of slowing down.
Recently, Horford spoke about the modern NBA and developing into a perimeter-centric big man as the main reasons he can still go.
“I believe that for me, physically, it has added years to my career,” he added. “It’s been good for me, and I think Brook saw it as well, and it’s been a great benefit. And now, guys are coming in from college, and they’re already shooting it, and they’re confident, giving them the green light, and it’s a good thing.”
After attempting just 78 total three-point field goals in the first eight seasons of his career with the Atlanta Hawks, Horford is now a legitimate three-point threat, shooting over 40% from beyond the arc in each of the last two seasons.
It may not seem like it on the surface, but Horford's comments bode well for Myles Turner, the Indiana Pacers' long-time center. Furthermore, it is proof that Turner is still a long-term asset for Indiana despite the trade rumors and the uncertainty of his future with the team.
Myles Turner's playstyle should lead to a long NBA career
Like Horford, Turner is a three-point shooter who ranks as one of the best stretch bigs in the game. As the Celtics veteran said, moving his game helped him extend his playing career. Turner, who essentially came into the game as a perimeter-centric player, should also be able to enjoy a long NBA career for similar reason to Horford and Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez.
Turner is still just 28 years old and stands as one of the Indiana's most important players as they aim to win their first NBA title in franchise history. The Texas native fits the Pacers' timeline as somebody who can provide value to the team now and for the long haul. Furthermore, Turner is a great center in the Pacers' offense. He complements Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam well and is essential to the team's fast-paced offense.
As it stands, it seems likely that Turner will remain in Indiana for the foreseeable future. Despite entering unrestricted free agency next summer, the Pacers front office has already made it clear they want to keep Turner around. Additionally, Turner has not given Pacers fans any reason to believe he wants to depart.
Amidst the hypothetical trade rumors, it is important to remember that Turner is still a valuable asset for Indiana in the long run, and Horford's comments further prove that.