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Al Horford Has A Fan In Blazers GM Neil Olshey

Blazers GM Neil Olshey is reportedly a fan of the Hawks' big man.

Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

The Portland Trail Blazers may have an interest in recruiting Atlanta Hawks hybrid center and free agent to-be, Al Horford. According to Jason Quick of CSNNW, Blazers GM Neil Olshey is a fan.

Drafted out of the University of Florida with the third overall selection in 2007, Horford is a four-time NBA All-Star with strong rebounding and post skills, as well as talent for passing. His athleticism has never been in doubt, but he missed significant time in the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 seasons due to pectoral muscle tears.

This season, Horford has averaged 15.3 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. In his prime at 29 years old, he has one big contract left. Although the Hawks have played him at center his whole career, power forward is generally considered a more natural position for him. It is also Portland's weakest position among starters. Horford's size, mid-range game, and quickness are coveted tools that the Blazers could certainly use if they feel their restructuring is ahead of schedule.