NEW YORK — New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson keeps trying to attack Boston Celtics big man Al Horford on switches, and it’s been a complete disaster. Through the first three games of the series, Brunson has relentlessly attacked Horford in hopes of driving past him and gaining an advantage, but it hasn’t worked out well.
Horford has logged 4:33 on Brunson, which ranks fourth on the Celtics in terms of matchup minutes. However, Brunson has attempted 18 shots when guarded by Horford, which is tied for the most shots he’s taken against any one player in the series.
He’s also attempted 18 shots against Jrue Holiday, and Holiday has spent more than three times the amount of minutes guarding Brunson (15:55).
In the 4:33 Brunson has spent attacking Horford, he’s shot just 6-of-18 from the field and 3-of-10 from behind the three-point line. His 10 three-point attempts against Horford are more than he’s taken against any player in the series..
Why has Al Horford guarded Jalen Brunson so well?
For most of the series, Holiday has been Brunson’s primary matchup. But the Knicks will go up to the top of the key, set a screen, and try to get Horford switched onto Brunson. From there, it’s usually all Horford, because Boston accepts the switch.
Horford has always been one of the most versatile big-man defenders in the NBA. His unique ability to move his feet and close out hard makes him a tough matchup for anyone—even small guards.
So, while Brunson is looking to drive by him, Horford drops back just enough to take away the lane but stays within striking distance for a solid close-out.
His length on the perimeter has been bothering Brunson, as the Knicks guard hasn’t found the success he’s been looking for when trying to drive past him.
Jrue Holiday has done well on Jalen Brunson, too
Horford isn’t the only one who’s found success on Brunson in this series. Holiday, who has been the primary matchup Boston has stuck on Brunson, has been incredible.
When guarded by Holiday, Brunson has shot just 5-of-18 from the field and 2-of-7 from deep. He and Horford end up working together a lot of the time, as the Knicks try to attack the big man in the pick-and-roll.
As for the key to guarding Brunson? “Try not to foul him,” Holiday said after shootaround on Monday morning. “Know that he lives at the free-throw line and does a great job of drawing fouls. Try to keep him off the free-throw line as much as possible. And then, show multiple bodies.”
