4. Al Horford
Willy Hernangomez projects to be a better rebounder than Al Horford, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t manners in which he can learn from the Boston Celtics star. Horford has become one of the most versatile big men in the NBA—a label that applies on both ends of the floor.
The New York Knicks need Hernangomez to be able to step up wherever Kristaps Porzingis may lag, and Horford is the embodiment of being prepared for any task put in front of him.
Horford isn’t as physical as Hernangomez, but he’s as versatile as any big man in the NBA. He has one of the best midrange jump shots of any player at any position, as well as the passing ability to be a legitimate facilitator for postseason-caliber teams.
It’s fair to question if the four-time All-Star has ever been a true No. 1, but his role has always been prominent, and his team has made the playoffs in each of his 10 NBA seasons.
Defensively, Horford has achieved the versatility that Hernangomez is pursuing. He can switch on the pick and roll, hold his own against stretch 4s, and even play enough in the paint to help the team’s efforts to protect the rim.
He’s never been the flashiest of players, but Hernangomez can learn quite a bit about how to be a modern NBA center on a postseason-caliber team from Horford.