Experience, versatility and a two-way presence at the center position. It's something the Golden State Warriors desperately needed after some limitations in recent years, and now they've been granted it already in the form of Al Horford.
It only took a quarter for Horford to show what kind of impact he's set to have on the Warriors this season, showcasing both his passing and defensive aspects in a strong opening stint with his new team after signing a two-year, $12 million contract as a free agent.
Al Horford's versatility is already on show for the Warriors
Horford missed his only field-goal attempt -- a top of the arc 3-pointer -- during his nearly nine minutes in the opening period, but his influence was still evident as Golden State overcame a slow start.