The Oklahoma City Thunder did the unthinkable the previous season, defeating the Indiana Pacers in seven games to win their first NBA title since 1979 (known as the Seattle SuperSonics at the time).
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However, just five years ago in the 2020–21 season, the Thunder finished 14th in the Western Conference with a 22–50 record (shortened season).
That season was head coach Mark Daigneault’s first season with the team. Recently, as the Thunder played against the Warriors (January 2), Daigneault reflected on the team’s 2020-21 season, and gave props to one of his former players.
“He’s the guy,” Daigneault said of Al Horford. “We had all these deals right before the season. It was a very disruptive environment in many ways. (…) He was never cynical. Ever. He was always focused on solutions. He’s as respectful a teammate and coach as you can find.”
Although many have forgotten, Horford played 28 games for Oklahoma City that season after being acquired via trade from the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite limited action, Horford averaged 14.2 points, 6.7 rebounds and 3.4 assists.
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At the end of the season, Horford was cut by the team as they focused on developing their young core. He was then traded to the Boston Celtics the following offseason and ultimately won a title with them in the 2023–24 season.
Even though his time in Oklahoma City was short, Horford recently expressed gratitude for the experience. “It was a turning point in my career,” Horford said. “I think being there, learning and understanding how this NBA is going to move forward (was important). That was the kind of vision he (Dagnelut) was seeing even then—–I was able to see it firsthand.”
Now a 19-year veteran with the Thunder, 76ers, Celtics, Hawks and now the Golden State Warriors, Horford is held in high regard no matter where he plays.
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