As one of the most notable unrestricted free agents entering the market, 39-year-old Al Horford, a key player in the Boston Celtics‘ 2024 championship run, has attracted attention from multiple NBA teams. With the 2024 offseason underway, the seasoned big man’s future remains uncertain, as Boston’s initial contract offer appears unlikely to keep him off the market.
Interest Grows in Horford as Warriors Eye Veteran Presence
Al Horford, a 6-foot-9 forward from Florida, is preparing for his 19th NBA season but continues to draw interest thanks to his versatile skill set and championship experience. The Boston Celtics reportedly extended a minimum salary offer to Horford early this summer, but it is believed that other organizations can outbid that proposal. Notably, the Golden State Warriors have been linked with Horford’s acquisition for some time, seeking to replace longtime big man Kevon Looney.
Horford’s ability to stretch the floor as a traditionally sized center could complement Steph Curry’s style of play, providing Golden State an opportunity to deploy five-out lineups that challenge opposing defenses. According to insights from Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Horford may consider a contract starting at the $5.7 million taxpayer midlevel exception for the 2025-26 season, potentially including a player option for the following year. However, Fischer also highlighted uncertainty around whether Horford intends to play a 20th season.
“Definitely uncovered a few Warriors notes that Golden State fans have yet to learn, plus… other details on Cleveland, New York, and more: https://t.co/oQ01xtwSpo https://t.co/AC2ba3N44b”
—Jake Fischer, NBA insider
Unknown Team Emerges as Possible Contender for Horford
In an unexpected development, Jake Fischer revealed that an additional NBA team has expressed tentative interest in signing Horford should the opportunity with Golden State fall through. This unidentified team reportedly still has a roster spot open and is hopeful Horford might reconsider his options if contract talks stall.
“I spoke with another team this week that still has an open roster spot and was at least somewhat hopeful that Horford would lose patience with the wait and suddenly invite new offers, but I don’t expect that to happen,”
—Jake Fischer, NBA insider
Despite the mystery surrounding this potential suitor, Fischer remains skeptical about the team’s chances, given their own doubts about winning Horford’s commitment over the Warriors.
“The team in question, in truth, was realistically as pessimistic as me since it projects Horford to ultimately land a deal with Golden State,”
—Jake Fischer, NBA insider
Al Horford’s Recent Performance and Role with the Celtics
During the 2023-24 season, Horford proved himself a valuable contributor to the Boston Celtics’ success, appearing in 60 games and starting 42. He averaged 9.0 points per game with shooting splits of .423 from the field, .363 from three-point range, and .895 from the free-throw line. In addition, he contributed 6.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.9 blocks, and 0.6 steals in about 28 minutes each outing, demonstrating his continued effectiveness on both ends of the floor despite advancing age.
While Horford’s experience and skill remain assets, his age inevitably raises concerns about injury risk and long-term durability, factors that teams must weigh carefully as they explore adding him to their rosters.
Outlook for Horford and the Free Agency Landscape
As the free agency period unfolds, the competition for Al Horford’s services stands out, especially given his championship pedigree and unique playing style that complements modern NBA offenses. The Boston Celtics face the possibility of losing a veteran who helped anchor their title run unless they increase their offer or Horford opts to remain in Boston under less lucrative terms.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors appear poised to be the frontrunners, banking on Horford to fill a vital role and offer stability in their frontcourt. The unknown team waiting in the wings introduces an additional layer of suspense, even if their chances seem slim.
Ultimately, Horford’s decision will signal how much longer this veteran intends to extend his career and which franchise he chooses to bolster in the seasons ahead.